Bass Coast Shire Council has decided there will be no fireworks and entertainment in Cowes this New Year’s Eve after the success of last year’s trial.

Community Safety Manager, Philippa O’Halloran, said Council reviewed the trial and feedback from the community before making its decision.

“Due to increasing crowd sizes and anti-social behaviour in Cowes, Council has decided to cancel all entertainment on New Year’s Eve indefinitely,” said Mrs O’Halloran.

“Over the past five years, the crowd size has increased to a point where we simply do not have enough Community Safety staff, Police and youth counsellors to manage.

“After last year’s trial we noticed a decrease in crowd numbers, offences and the amount of broken glass.”

Council voted to continue its support for fireworks and entertainment for the Cowes community.

“We had a wonderful response from the community for last year’s fireworks as part of the Carols by the Bay,” said Mrs O’Halloran.

“Council is committed to a night of family friendly entertainment and will provide fireworks at the event again this year.

“If, for any reason, Carols by the Bay doesn’t go ahead, Council will nominate another suitable event.”

The Council decision does not affect the Inverloch or Coronet Bay New Year’s Eve fireworks displays.