'Can't fit any more': Barges packed with fireworks for biggest NYE display
Final preparations are underway for Canberra's biggest ever New Year's Eve fireworks display with tens-of-thousands of people expected to flock to Lake Burley Griffin to ring in 2026.
Canberra will farewell 2025 and ring in 2026 with the city's biggest ever New Year's Eve fireworks display.
Some 50,000 people are expected to celebrate New Year's on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin tonight.
There will be two fireworks displays — at 9pm and midnight — launched from barges in the lake's central basin.
Additional barges have been floated on Lake Burley Griffin to launch the fireworks. (ABC News: Monte Bovill)
Martin Brady from Fireworks Australia said it was the "biggest show" they have ever done in Canberra.
"There's two more barges than last year and bigger barges as well," he said.
"We can't fit anymore on, it is chock-a-block."
Martin Brady says this year's fireworks display will be the biggest yet. (ABC News: Monte Bovill)
The displays will last for about 10 minutes each and will be accompanied by a synchronised soundtrack.
"At 9 o'clock … we are trying to do a few tricks for the kids, so it's got some special shells. They love the shapes, they like the smileys, the love hearts," Mr Brady said.
"And then [at] midnight: full feral … super loud and massive."
Mr Brady says they "can't fit any more" fireworks on the barges. (ABC News: Monte Bovill)
Fireworks won't be launched from Commonwealth Avenue Bridge this year as a result of roadworks in the area.
"We had to rethink the project, hence why we have brought more barges in to be a little wider," Mr Brady said.
"My tip would be if you can see the dead middle of the central basin, doesn't matter which side of the lake you are on, you'll be fine."
The fireworks displays will last for about 10 minutes each. (ABC News: Monte Bovill)
Farewell to nightclub institution
For some Canberrans, it's not only goodbye to 2025 but also to a city institution.
Queer nightclub Cube will open its doors for one final time on New Year's Eve after two decades in operation.