Bass Coast Shire Council invites visitors to enjoy the festive season and is taking a low key approach to New Year’s Eve with no entertainment or fireworks provided in Cowes. The Shire welcomes approximately 70,000 holiday makers over the Christmas and New Year period, many of whom come to enjoy the coastal environment and relaxed feel of the area.

Community Safety Manager, Philippa O’Halloran, explained that this is the second year Council has had a “no entertainment” approach to New Year’s Eve on Phillip Island.

“While most people enjoy the family atmosphere on Phillip Island, there have been incidents of inappropriate behaviour and vandalism at previous New Year’s Eve celebrations. Disruptive behaviour ruins the holiday atmosphere, so we ask people to act responsibly, look after one another and enjoy the natural beauty that makes this place unique,” said Mrs O’Halloran.

Victoria Police and Community Safety Rangers will be on patrol again this year at New Year’s Eve to monitor public activity at Cowes.

“There will be New Year’s Eve family celebrations in some of the smaller coastline communities,” said Mrs O’Halloran.

“Celebrations will be held at Coronet Bay Foreshore and Inverloch Recreation Reserve both starting at 6.00pm with fireworks at 9.30pm.

Mrs O’Halloran reminded people to ‘enjoy it don’t spoil it’ and to dial ‘000’ if you have any concerns about anti- social behaviour or to report illegal fireworks.

There are several other events happening throughout Bass Coast during the holiday period. For information about these visit www.basscoast.vic.gov.au, or call 1300 BCOAST (226 278)