Blog #3

            After hearing the build-up of this event from Russ, the media (newspapers, Sydney radio stations, websites), and from advertising Sydney has sponsored throughout the city (NYE 2011), I was expecting a lot.  I was expecting an amazing amount of people, an elaborate display of fireworks, and an overall mood of celebration.  Surprisingly, my expectation were exceeded and I was not let down in the slightest.  As with many things, movies, events, etc, the hype is often more built up than the actual event, but this was not the case.

            Sydney is recognized worldwide as a go to location for New Years Eve.  The article in our course packet, predicts that the 2009 celebration was expecting to bring in “$156 million in direct economic impact for Sydney.” This event not only gives fireworks companies a chance to show off their newest technologies, it gives Sydney a chance to have a global spotlight placed upon it as the world rings in the new year.  As the phrase goes, ‘all publicity is good publicity.’  This event stirs people desire to visit Australia, and gets peoples attention from all over the world.  The whole New Years Eve celebration is an attraction on a global level.

            During the day on New Years Eve, I went shopping on Market Street.  Every store that I visited, shoppers and people working asked me what I was doing.  The fireworks are an event for everyone; young children, adults, older generations, native Sydney residents, native Australian’s visiting domestically, and of course international tourists. By providing some places designed to be without alcohol, it provides a good place for families and a less rowdy crowd.  One event that I was not expecting was the dance party that was set up in Rushcutters Bay.  When we set our blankets up around 7 p.m., others in the group and I was slightly dreading the five-hour wait, as I was cold and impatient.  The dance party was an amazing way to get people moving, in a good mood, and to pass the time.

            The entire New Years Eve event is meticulously crafted. Working a year in advance, with over 1000 workers, the city is able to provide this amazing experience for everyone FOR FREE.  Sydney understands that their return on investment will be great.

            One of questions that I would ask an expert would be what the total amount spent on the event?  Along with that I would like to get a breakdown of that price.  I would like the breakdown to include sectors such as marketing, fireworks, salaries, etc…  Another question for an expert would be how does the $156 million received in economic stimulus money get reinvested and impact the residents of Sydney? 

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Even before the sun set, there were masses of individuals from all over the world preparing to spend their New Years Eve watching the Sydney fireworks.

This picture shows some of the fireworks from the family show at 9 p.m.  The family show is a great way for families to still see the fireworks but not have to stay out until midnight with their kids.

This is a great picture depicted the mood and vibe of New Years Eve.  By providing a dance party to meet people and pass the time, it livened everyone up and was really fun.