It looks like fireworks are here to stay in Campbelltown. A council report tabled at last night’s ordinary meeting confirmed what most people already know: most people love fireworks and fireworks are cheaper than any of the current alternatives.
The report conceded that there were concerns with fireworks, including their impact on domestic animals like dogs, and with temporary smoke pollution.
No debate took place before it was put to the vote and waved through with a recommendation to “note the report’’.
“Fireworks displays have long been used at public celebrations and continue to be recognised as a significant and well-loved feature of many major community events across Australia, including within the Campbelltown Local Government Area,’’ the report stated.
“As part of Council’s major annual event program, fireworks displays are currently delivered at Festival of Fisher’s Ghost (2 shows), Christmas Carols, New Year’s Eve (2 shows) and Australia Day celebrations, with each display typically running for 7-10 minutes and a total annual cost of $87,000 excluding GST.
“Whilst recent community feedback indicates that fireworks are a significant community drawcard for many residents and contribute positively to the atmosphere and appeal of an event, their use can generate social, animal welfare and environmental considerations for some members of the community.
“Fireworks can provide a shared community experience and create a sense of occasion during significant celebrations,’’ the report said.
“They are often viewed as a spectacle that brings people together from all walks of life, contributing to the overall event atmosphere and supports community participation.
“For many residents, fireworks displays remain a traditional element of major celebrations and are regarded as a highlight of the event experience.
“Conversely, some members of the community have raised concerns regarding adverse effects generated from fireworks displays including anxiety or trauma-related conditions associated with loud noises, respiratory irritation associated with smoke or particulate matter and sleep disruption for infants, young children and shift workers.
“Animal welfare and wildlife care organisations commonly report that fireworks displays cause distress to domestic animals and wildlife due to loud, sudden noises and bright flashes of light. Reported impacts can include anxiety, disorientation, attempts to flee, temporary behavioural changes and heightened stress responses.
“Community concerns regarding the welfare of pets and wildlife continue to be one of the most frequently raised concerns associated with fireworks displays. While specific local data is not currently available regarding firework-related incidents, these concerns are regularly highlighted by animal welfare organisations and community members.’’
The report said Council has investigated a range of alternative celebration options that could complement or, in some instances, replace traditional fireworks displays.
These included drone light shows, which utilise coordinated fleets of illuminated drones to create animated imagery and storytelling displays in the night sky.
The report noted that the endorsed drone light show for the 2026 Festival of Fisher’s Ghost is budgeted at $101,000 for two 10-minute shows, making them much more expensive than traditional fireworks displays.
“Fireworks continue to be a popular component of major community celebrations and remain supported by many members of the community,’’ the report said.
“Early community engagement undertaken by Council identified that 71 per cent of survey respondents support the continued inclusion of fireworks at Council events.’’
