Perth residents who purchased tickets to a water lantern festival are raising concerns after the event failed to deliver on its promises. The festival, promoted by a company called Water Lantern Festival, was advertised heavily on social media, but attendees who paid in advance have reported receiving no lanterns or refunds.
The event, which involved floating flameless paper lanterns on water, was scheduled to take place in Perth. However, ticket holders have expressed frustration after the company allegedly failed to provide the promised experience. Many took to social media to complain about the lack of communication and the absence of lanterns.
This incident mirrors a similar controversy in Canberra, where the National Capital Authority denied approval for a Water Lantern Festival event on Lake Burley Griffin. In that case, the company claimed the NCA was a partner, but the authority refuted this and instructed the company to remove references to its name and logo. The company also used the Commonwealth Coat of Arms without authorization.
In Perth, ticket holders are now seeking refunds, but the company's terms and conditions state that entry fees are non-refundable under any circumstances. Consumer advocates warn that such clauses may not hold up under Australian consumer law, as services must be provided as advertised.
The Water Lantern Festival company, which runs events in Australia and the US, has an Australian Business Number, making it subject to local laws. Authorities urge consumers to check refund policies before purchasing tickets and to report any suspicious activity.
