A fireworks display at a fundraising event for the Claremont Junior Football Club near Hobart turned terrifying on Saturday when rockets began firing horizontally into the crowd, exploding among startled onlookers.
The event, advertised as a “fantastic community night” by organiser Craig Walker in an AI-generated digital flyer, was meant to feature a fireworks display as the headline attraction. However, footage published by Pulse Tasmania shows dozens of locals gathered around a large bonfire as rockets shoot sideways into the crowd.
In one clip, a lit firework lands at the feet of several people before exploding in a brilliant flash of white light, with screams heard in the background. People are seen slow to react, appearing confused as fireworks detonate nearby.
A WorkSafe Tasmania spokesman confirmed the regulator is aware of the incident and “undertaking inquiries”. He noted that Type 2 fireworks permit holders must comply with conditions, and breaches can result in infringement notices of up to $2,050 or fines of up to $10,250 upon prosecution.
Tasmania Police said they are aware of the incident but have received no formal complaints. No ambulances were called, and Tasmania Health confirmed no one was hospitalised.
The event was one of 611 approved fireworks displays across the state for Tasmania’s annual Cracker Night celebrations. Permits require fireworks to be set off between 7pm and 8.30pm on properties of at least 1,000 square metres.
