Docklands shines on Australia Day

Docklands shines on Australia Day

Docklands was the highlight of Melbourne’s Australia Day celebrations last month, with thousands of people flocking to the waterfront.

Destination Docklands’ family friendly Australia Day event kicked off at 4pm and saw thousands head down to join in the fun of the thong-throwing competition, kite-making workshop, sausage sizzle and face-painting.

Roving performers also entertained the crowd, while Nova DJs provided an aussie soundtrack, which saw plenty of people up and dancing.

Destination Docklands CEO Anita Donnelly said some people were so keen they began arriving at midday.

According to Ms Donnelly, the 250 spots in the thong-throwing competition were quickly filled, with organisers having to turn people away, while around 800 kites were made at the kite workshop.

Ms Donnelly estimated at least 20,000 people turned up for the 9.30pm Australia Day fireworks and City of Melbourne pedestrian monitors recorded more than 64,000 people in Docklands between 7am and 10pm.

This year was the first time the official fireworks have been held in Docklands, having previously been staged at Kings Domain.

Ms Donnelly said NewQuay Promenade, Harbour Esplanade and Victoria Harbour Promenade were packed with people waiting to see the spectacular light show.

“The crowd was very well-behaved and we had absolutely no problems at all,” Ms Donnelly said.

Ms Donnelly said Destination Docklands hoped to repeat the success next year with a bigger and better event and hoped to again host the fireworks.

Join Our Facebook Group