Byron Shire mayor Simon Richardson is adamant that this New Years Eve will be a far cry from last year, when drinkers ran wild, trashing the town, 14 people were arrested and tonnes of garbage were collected from Main Beach in the days that followed.
But, while Mayor Richardson has great plans for this year’s event, he admits Byron Shire Council is short of the cash to make them a reality.
He said Council had allocated additional funds to support the management of New Years Eve, but added that additional community sponsorship was still being sought. He welcomed the support of The Falls Festival ($25,000), Byron Bay Liquor Accord ($5,000) and In the Pink Byron Bay ($1,000).
‘It’s a great boost, but Council needs further support,’ he said. ‘Doing nothing is not an option and Council is committed to delivering a safe summer in the Bay.
‘There are costs in setting up, closing the main street, rubbish collection, cleaning and the hosting of Soul Street and the First Sun New Years Day celebration. Byron United have been an active supporter in ensuring that we get the mix right.’
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