New Year event attracts thousands

The Peninsula's New Year's Fireworks event attracted a crowd estimated at 14,000.
There were no arrests or major problems and the atmosphere was festive and happy.
"Umina is now on the map as a New Year destination with many people travelling from Sydney to this safe family event," said event organiser Mrs Emma Ledingham.
"The firework display was well worth waiting for, with a fantastic computer-generated display."
"All stallholders were run off their feet with greater than expected sales in all areas and food stalls completely selling out by the end of the night,
"The community supported the event with their gold coin donations which has raised funds which will go towards youth and charities on the Peninsula."
Gosford Mayor Cr Chris Holstein opened the event at 6.30pm with praise for the Rotary Club of Umina Beach for its initiative in organising the event.
Special mention went to East's Ocean Beach Holiday Park for its donation of the fireworks.
Local bands played with "Go to Bed Jessica" being popular and fitting in with the carnival atmosphere.
Fire juggler Brian Wilson kept the crowd entertained with spinning fire sticks and staffs and acrobatic routines.
The fireworks display started at exactly 10pm.
Mrs Emma Ledingham began organising the event in March and said she liaised with council, police and security to ensure a safe and happy family environment.
"The event takes a lot of hard work and planning by many people and is a joint effort by local businesses and members of The Rotary Club of Umina," she said.