Kiama Council is calling for sponsors for its annual sky show to continue. Photo: Kiama Municipal Council.
Kiama’s New Year’s Eve fireworks spectacular could be cancelled due to the council’s budget constraints unless new sponsors help fund the annual event.
The NYE Sky Show has been an iconic part of the Illawarra’s festive celebrations for more than a decade with thousands flocking to the foreshore each year.
Kiama Council has previously contributed about $80,000 annually to make it happen but a focus on financial sustainability has left the show in the firing line, with external funding now needed for it to go ahead.
“We’re on track to break even in our budget for 2026–27, and this is just one of many important decisions we’ve had to make to ensure council is fiscally responsible,” Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said.
“We have an in-house team of experts ready to help — we just need some financial assistance to deliver what has become one of our region’s favourite ways to welcome the new year.”
The council is calling on businesses and organisations to help deliver the show which injects an estimated $1.7 million into the local economy.
“We know how important the New Year’s Eve Sky Show has become to both residents and visitors, and council is excited to hear from potential corporate partners to help us continue to deliver the event,” Cr McDonald said.
Contributing to the event is also being pitched to organisations as an opportunity for exposure, with the major tourism event expected to bring high visibility promotion with naming rights, logo placements, branded fireworks or food precincts and onsite activations all up for grabs.
With benefits for business and the community, the mayor was confident the right fit would be found.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to partner with council, give back to the community and promote your business across the entire Illawarra region,” Cr McDonald said.
“As one of Australia’s largest regional fireworks events, Kiama’s NYE Sky Show gets an enormous amount of publicity and attracts up to 20,000 attendees. Now we’re offering a golden opportunity to put your name to this signature event.”
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Expression of interest (EOI) can be submitted through the council’s website, with businesses also encouraged to get in touch regarding any questions or specific sponsoring options available for the event.
“I encourage local businesses and stakeholders to fill out our expression of interest form,” Cr McDonald said. “Or simply pick up the phone to speak to us about how you can be involved.”
EOIs close on Sunday 13 July.
