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Enthusiastic attendees camped overnight to secure prime viewing spots for the grand event, while others began arriving as early as dawn, with approximately 2,000 present by 6 a.m.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns has encouraged citizens this week to defy terrorists by participating in the city’s most significant celebration of the year.
An estimated 1.1 million spectators are expected to converge at the harbor, with a robust security presence of 2,000 officers, including those equipped with long-range firearms—a rare sight for Australians but aimed at ensuring public safety.
Today, Minns announced a shift in strategy that will include heavily-armed police mingling with the crowds, clarifying that this presence should not be interpreted as an indication of any active threat.
“They will be both operational and highly visible,” Minns assured.
“It means that they’re there in preparation for any eventuality.”
There will also be 1000 extra public transport services put on, running constantly over the coming 46 hours, Transport Minister John Graham said.
Major surges are expected after the 9pm fireworks and the midnight fireworks, with people urged to – if they can – walk further up George Street to Martin Place or Town Hall to have an easier time getting on transport.
The Barangaroo metro station will also be open later.
While the premier has called for people to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the community as normal, the event will inevitably be marked by the December 14 terror attack on a Chanukah celebration, in which 15 people were killed.
The Sydney Harbour Bridge will display the image of a dove and calls for peace and unity, while a menorah will shine at 11pm.
This will signal a moment of silence, during which people are encouraged to shine their phone torchlights in a moment of solidarity and respect for the Jewish community.