Shellharbour City Council is facing a potential financial hit if rainy weather disrupts its planned New Year's Eve drone show. The council approved a massive 500-drone display at Shell Cove in February, initially estimated at $310,000, but a new report to Tuesday night's council meeting shows the cost has been reduced to $258,000.
Sponsorship and Budget Details
Council staff have secured $140,000 in sponsorship from local businesses and organisations, leaving $118,000 to be covered by the council budget. Further sponsorship is being sought, which could lower the council's contribution even more.
Weather Cancellation Risks
The drone operator has set strict weather thresholds: the show must be cancelled if winds exceed 28 km/h, heavy rain occurs, or the Bureau of Meteorology issues a severe storm warning for Shell Cove. The report notes that these conditions have not been met on New Year's Eve for the past three years. If cancelled, the rest of the NYE festivities at Shell Cove could still proceed.
In case of cancellation, the drone show can be rescheduled at no extra cost within a three-month window. However, the council would face additional costs for infrastructure and event delivery. Postponing to a new date at Shell Cove would add $173,000 to the budget, while holding it at Reddall Reserve would cost $168,000.
Council Options
Councillors will consider various options at the meeting, including taking out event insurance to reduce the financial risk if the show is postponed. The decision will weigh the potential savings from good weather against the costs of a rainout.
