Geelong welcomed 2025 in spectacular fashion on Tuesday night, as a vibrant crowd gathered along the city's iconic waterfront to witness a brilliant fireworks display over Corio Bay.
A Night of Celebration on the Waterfront
The skies above Geelong erupted with colour and light just after 9:30pm, marking the family-friendly segment of the evening's festivities. The main event, however, was the breathtaking midnight fireworks show that illuminated the entire waterfront precinct, drawing cheers and applause from the massive audience.
Families and friends secured prime viewing spots hours in advance, with parks, piers, and the surrounding grassy areas filling up quickly. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation, as locals and visitors alike picnicked and enjoyed the warm summer evening.
Community Spirit and Safe Celebrations
The event was hailed as a major success, not only for its visual spectacle but also for the positive and safe environment it fostered. Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan expressed his delight, praising the community for coming together to celebrate responsibly.
"Seeing so many people from across our region enjoying the Geelong waterfront on New Year's Eve was fantastic," Mayor Sullivan said. He emphasised that the celebration showcased the city's vibrant spirit and its premier events location.
Authorities reported a peaceful night with minimal incidents, attributing this to careful planning and the cooperative mood of the crowd. The dual-fireworks format, with an early show for families and the grand midnight display, was particularly appreciated by parents with young children.
Setting the Stage for a Big Year Ahead
The successful New Year's Eve event is seen as a positive omen for Geelong's 2025 calendar. It reinforces the waterfront's status as the city's natural gathering place for major community events and celebrations.
The dazzling reflections of the fireworks on the waters of Corio Bay provided a stunning backdrop, creating memorable scenes for the thousands of smartphones held aloft. For many, it was a perfect way to say goodbye to the old year and embrace the new one with optimism and joy.
As the final echoes of the fireworks faded, the happy crowds dispersed, leaving the waterfront serene once more, but carrying with them the shared experience of a community celebration that perfectly launched Geelong into 2025.