Perth ushered in the year 2026 with a blend of traditional fireworks and midnight revelry, but the celebrations were underscored by a visibly heightened and heavily armed police presence across the city's main event hubs. An estimated 130,000 people gathered in Perth and Northbridge, where the sight of officers patrolling with long-arm rifles marked a 'new norm' for public gatherings in Western Australia.
A Subdued Atmosphere in the Party Heartland
The usual electric buzz in Northbridge was noticeably quieter this New Year's Eve. Crowds around Yagan Square, typically packed shoulder-to-shoulder, were thinner, allowing revellers unusual space to move. The significant police presence at times appeared to outnumber the partygoers themselves. Event MC Fabulous Sharon expressed her surprise at the turnout, stating she was "honestly shocked by how quiet it is."
Attendees and observers suggested the lower numbers, despite a perfect warm and still night, pointed to a lingering national unease following last month's Bondi massacre, with public safety remaining a top priority for many Australians at large events.
Fireworks and Family Fun Amid a Confronting Backdrop
Earlier in the evening, thousands of families flocked to Elizabeth Quay for the City of Perth's family-friendly fireworks. Two spectacular 15-minute displays lit up the sky above the Swan River, dazzling the crowd with a vibrant array of colours. The area was transformed with roaming fairies, face painting, and music from a floating DJ stage, creating a magical atmosphere for children and parents alike.
However, this festive scene was juxtaposed with the confronting sight of heavily armed police teams conducting patrols along the promenade. For many, including tourists and families, the visual of officers carrying large black rifles was unsettling. Jehan Ahmed, a recent arrival from the UK, noted it was her first time seeing a gun and found the display "frightening." WA Police confirmed they were conducting an operation but stated there was no immediate threat to the public.
Celebrating Resilience and Looking Ahead
Despite the underlying tension, the spirit of celebration persevered. In the heart of Northbridge, venues like Johnny Foxes and the nightclub Stories kept vibes high with music and dancing. At The Reveley, couple Louise O'Donnell and Jason Campbell toasted to their future, having just applied for permanent residency. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court Gardens offered free carnival rides and acrobatic shows, where young Ellie Lloyd practised her hula-hooping skills.
The night passed without major incident or arrests, with the visible police and parked vehicles acting as a deterrent. For Perth, the transition from 2025 to 2026 was a complex tapestry of joy, unity, and a sobering new security reality, as the community demonstrated resilience in celebrating together while navigating heightened safety protocols.
