Vic: Crowds build for NYE by the Yarra

AAP General News (Australia)
12-31-2008
Vic: Crowds build for NYE by the Yarra

Crowds and excitement are building by the Yarra River in Melbourne .. with up to half
a million people expected to see in 2009 despite predictions of a cool night.

Brilliant sunshine broke through thick grey cloud late in the day .. encouraging thousands
to come in early to central Melbourne to see in 2009.

But the already cool breeze is set to get chillier .. with a cold front due to pass
over Victoria overnight.

A family-friendly 9.15pm (AEDT) fireworks show will precede the main event .. a pyrotechnic
display that will stretch along the Yarra from the Alexandra Gardens to Docklands at the
stroke of midnight.

Alexandra Gardens .. alongside the river .. has become a theme park with free live
music .. carnival rides and TV screens.

The river precinct has again been declared alcohol-free to head off trouble before it starts.

There will also be a free concert at Federation Square.

Up to 40 thousand more revellers will attend Sensation at the city's Telstra Dome ..

one of Australia's largest New Year's Eve parties.

Free public transport will be available throughout the night.

AAP RTV jrd/crh

KEYWORD: EVE VIC (MELBOURNE)

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