By ANNA USHER

Welcoming 2026 from one of the lower north shore’s most popular fireworks vantage points will cost you $50 this New Year’s Eve – even though it is public land.

North Sydney Council has voted to charge an entry fee to Blues Point reserve to help offset its “serious cashflow” problem brought on by the controversial Olympic Pool redevelopment, which has doubled in cost to more than $120 million.

The Council will also consider charging rates to private schools in the LGA and selling at least two public assets.

At Monday night’s meeting, Councillors voted five-to-three in favour of ticketing Blues Point on December 31, while keeping Bradfield Park and the Lavender Bay precincts free.

“For every year I’ve been on this council I’ve always voted to keep public space free and access free,” Mayor Zoe Baker said.

“But unfortunately, as a council and governing body we’ve inherited a really precarious financial position that has not been relieved by seeking a special rate variation.

“It’s with an exceptionally heavy heart that I find myself supporting the motion for one year only.”

Council plans to sell 8000 tickets for $50 each, generating $400,000 in revenue.

It means a family-of-four would need to pay $200 to secure a spot at Blues Point Reserve – a move that has divided locals.

“I’m heartily opposed to this idea, the reason being the cost impost onto young families of being able to go and enjoy the fireworks, especially because there are special fireworks on before 9pm,” local resident David McDonald told the council.

“Perhaps there should be consideration somehow for young families that have their kids that go there traditionally to watch the fireworks, because they’re put on especially for them.”

McDonald also argued there should be a special discount for local residents.

Blues Point Resident Mariet Wezeman said she would consider watching the fireworks from another location – or not at all – if a charge was imposed.
“It’s sad to hear there will be a $50 charge. It’s always been free, and I think it’s been a great attraction for everyone around to just come and watch the fireworks. It’s the perfect spot to watch,” she said.

‘There’s always a huge line into this place because everyone wants to come here. Now I have to think about it – and I think more people will have to think about it. The council should have thought about costs earlier.’

North Sydney Council will write to the state government for assistance with the cost of hosting the New Year’s Eve event.

If the state agrees to help, Council will not charge an entry fee to Blues Point.