The Sunshine Coast—a region celebrated for its stunning beaches, vibrant communities, and a reputation as one of Australia’s prime tourist destinations—saw its New Year’s Eve sparkle dimmed considerably this year. Instead of the grand, dual-fireworks tradition that once lit up the skies and cemented Mooloolaba as a must-visit for holidaymakers, 2025 began with a damp squib of an 8:30 pm display, followed by… well, silence.

A Dismal Beginning for the New Mayor

Under the leadership of newly-elected Mayor Rosanna Natoli, the council defended the decision to ring in 2025 with a whimper, stating a combination of environmental concerns, cost-saving measures, and safety considerations. While these are undoubtedly valid factors, critics argue that Mayor Natoli could have seized the opportunity to overturn the decision made by the previous council and restore a celebration worthy of the Sunshine Coast’s reputation. Instead, she inherited the controversy, let it simmer, and now faces the backlash.

To make matters worse, the decision came at a time when tourism operators were counting on a bumper season to recover from the economic challenges of recent years. The lack of a midnight display not only disappointed locals but sent a discouraging signal to potential visitors. If Mayor Natoli’s idea of a “family-friendly” New Year’s is packing up before bedtime, perhaps she should reconsider the Sunshine Coast’s aspirations as a world-class holiday destination.

With the lead up to the Olympics approaching in a few years, and most of Mooloolaba currently shut up up and tucked in bed by 9.30pm, it is hardly a location tourists will want to continue to flock to. The Sunshine Coast urgently needs a new inspirational Council to represent the region, and a leader with real experience in tourism and someone that understands regional economic growth.

Counting the Costs of Missed Opportunities

Local business leaders were quick to voice their dismay. Brett Thompson from the Mooloolaba Chamber of Commerce was blunt: “Embarrassing” is how he described the council’s handling of the event. And he’s not wrong. With no countdown to midnight, the Sunshine Coast missed an opportunity to solidify its position as a premier New Year’s destination. What’s more, local restaurants, accommodation providers, and tourism operators were left counting their losses from a quieter-than-expected evening.

Tourism accounts for an estimated $3 billion annually on the Sunshine Coast. Events like New Year’s Eve, with their potential to draw in massive crowds, are crucial. This lackluster showing could result in long-term reputational damage, particularly as other Australian regions—including neighboring Gold Coast and Brisbane—step up their game. Early estimates suggest this misstep could cost the Sunshine Coast millions in future revenue, as holidaymakers rethink their destinations for next year.

National Mockery and International Disappointment

It’s one thing for locals to grumble about the council’s decisions, but the Sunshine Coast also made national headlines—for all the wrong reasons. Fox’s The Late Debate had a field day mocking the council’s frugality, questioning whether the region takes its tourism seriously. Meanwhile, international visitors—many of whom booked stays based on the Sunshine Coast’s reputation for hosting memorable celebrations—expressed confusion and disappointment at the abrupt 8:30 pm finale.

Tourism advocates argue that these decisions undermine the Sunshine Coast’s global standing. Sandy Zubrinich, chairwoman of the Sunshine Coast Business Council, pointed out the shortsightedness of prioritizing cost-cutting over maintaining the region’s competitive edge. The damage done to brand perception, she warned, could take years to repair.

Mayor Natoli’s Role: More Effort, Less Excuse

Let’s be clear—events like these are opportunities to shine, not simply obligations to endure. Critics of Mayor Natoli argue that she could have done more than simply “review” the decision. After all, leadership isn’t about pointing to your predecessors; it’s about steering the ship and making bold decisions. What better way to begin her tenure than by ensuring the Sunshine Coast delivered a show-stopping event, reaffirming its place as a top-tier destination?

Instead, the council’s online survey about future festive programming feels like a polite shrug to public outrage rather than a decisive move forward. Residents and business owners alike are left asking: Is this really the best we can expect from the Natoli administration?

The Bigger Picture

New Year’s Eve is more than just fireworks. It’s a chance to draw crowds, create memories, and position the Sunshine Coast as a destination worth celebrating. For a region that prides itself on being a paradise for locals and visitors alike, this year’s underwhelming display feels like a betrayal of its own potential.

Mayor Natoli and the council have a year to prove they’ve learned their lesson. Otherwise, they risk not just a few disgruntled locals but a future where the Sunshine Coast’s star burns a little less brightly in the eyes of the world. As the dust (or lack of fireworks debris) settles, one thing is clear: the Sunshine Coast needs to aim higher—and Mayor Natoli must lead the charge.

Article Reference:
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-01-01/sunshine-coast-mooloolaba-fireworks-show-slammed/104776352