Kiama Municipal Council is inviting businesses and organisations to help bring one of the South Coast's most loved community traditions back to its iconic home, launching sponsorship opportunities for the 2026 New Year's Eve Sky Show at Kiama Harbour.
Following strong community feedback and an independent business case, Council has committed funding towards a New Year's Eve fireworks event and is now seeking corporate partners to help re-ignite the fireworks display after it was paused last year due to financial reasons.
Council has allocated $20,000 in its 2026-27 budget towards the event and has resolved to actively seek sponsorship, grants and other funding sources to bridge the remaining gap required to stage the Sky Show at the harbour.
Mayor Cameron McDonald said the community had been clear about the importance of the event. "New Year's Eve at Kiama Harbour is a night where the community comes together, visitors experience Kiama at its very best and local businesses can benefit from one of the busiest evenings of the year.
"Despite the financial challenges Council continues to work through, we've committed funding because we recognise its value to the community.
"Now we're inviting businesses to join us in preserving one of Kiama's favourite traditions."
An independent Lean Business Case prepared by Sparrowly Group found strong community support for a New Year's Eve fireworks event and identified the significant economic and social benefits generated by the celebration.
The event has previously provided a valuable boost for local businesses through increased visitation, extended trading opportunities and overnight stays.
Chair of the Tourism and Economic Advisory Committee, Councillor Matt Brown said the sponsorship program offered businesses a unique opportunity to be associated with one of the South Coast's most recognised community events and the largest NYE fireworks display outside of Sydney.
Photos: Peter Izzard Photography
"The New Year's Eve Sky Show attracts huge crowds and delivers significant benefits for local tourism, hospitality and retail businesses," Cr Brown said.
"Sponsors will receive valuable exposure through event marketing and on-the-ground activations, but more importantly they will be investing in an event that creates community connection, supports local businesses and showcases Kiama at its very best.
"The reality is that sponsorship support will play a critical role in determining whether fireworks can return to their iconic harbour location. Every contribution brings us one step closer."
Council has released a sponsorship prospectus outlining a range of partnership opportunities, from Principal Partner through to event sponsorships, while also offering tailored packages.
The proposed event program would again feature family-friendly entertainment, including live music, roving performers, a kids' zone, food vendors and the signature 9pm fireworks display over Kiama Harbour.
