Council has voted to allow the continued use of fireworks and animal-based entertainment at City of Greater Bendigo events, with a review to be held in three years' time or earlier, if needed.
The future review will be an opportunity to reconsider current budgets and the latest technology, which could be a potential alternative when it comes to the use of fireworks.
In supporting the continued use of animal-based entertainment, the City will strengthen its processes for contracting licensed operators.
The City recently surveyed the community about the use of fireworks and animals at events run by the City only, following two Notices of Motion that were endorsed at the May Council meeting requesting staff investigate alternative forms of entertainment that are more inclusive for people and safer for animals and wildlife.
Two separate surveys were prepared for the community, the fireworks survey focused on New Year's Eve and Bendigo Easter Festival Easter Saturday fireworks displays, while the use of animal-based entertainment related to petting zoos, wildlife displays and pony rides at events including the Bendigo Easter Festival, Fun Loong Fun Day and Play in the Garden Day.
The overwhelming feedback from the community was to continue with both forms of entertainment.
Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf thanked the community for providing feedback.
"The community clearly values the current fireworks displays and use of animal-based entertainment at various family-friendly events. The word 'joy' was the most-used word when surveying residents and others who attend these events," Cr Metcalf said.
"Council also recognised these free and low-cost forms of entertainment are particularly valuable at a time when our community is under increased financial pressure, and that attending such events represented valuable traditions for families.
"However, Council would like to see these forms of entertainment reviewed in the years to come, to ensure they are still the most appropriate."
