The show must go on.
That was the attitude of Nathalia Barmah Business and Tourism event co-ordinator Wayne Limbrick when soaring costs nearly prompted a fireworks-free New Year’s Eve Carnival in Nathalia.
Fortunately, the successful scramble up until December for sponsorships and donations proved a community that comes together can achieve anything.
“The 2022 carnival is our return from a two-year COVID-19 hiatus, and inflation raised issues in the supply chain thanks to COVID,” Mr Limbrick said.
“Since the last event, the price of fireworks alone has gone from $6000 to $9500 and the company that have been doing it for 15 to 20 years aren’t making any money; it actually should be a higher cost.
“We’re lucky that Nathalia IGA and Ryan Meat Company were able to pay for half the cost of the fireworks this year, otherwise it may not have gone ahead.”
Businesses, families and community members have all felt the effects of inflation this year, motivating Mr Limbrick to ensure the carnival costs were kept down for attendees.
“Entry remains free, and we try to provide free to minimal cost of attractions for families, like the animal nursery and wildlife exhibition, and the Dookie Lions Club will still run their train for $2,” he said.
In addition, there will be market stalls, carnival rides, wood chopping and sleeper cutting, raffles, face painting, camel rides and a show and shine.
The midnight fireworks display at the Nathalia Recreation Reserve will be a moment of triumph for Mr Limbrick and the community.
“People have been extraordinary,” he said.
“We’ve managed to get the money we needed without too much hassle because everyone’s been amazing in wanting this iconic local event in Nathalia to go ahead.”
More details about the event can be found on the Bendigo Community Bank Nathalia New Year’s Eve Carnival Facebook page.