NSW: Revellers cram into Sydney

AAP General News (Australia)
12-31-1999
NSW: Revellers cram into Sydney

By John Kidman

SYDNEY, Dec 31 AAP - A tide of humanity this evening engulfed the foreshores of Sydney
Harbour, the national focus for millennium eve celebrations.

Tens of thousands of revellers crammed into the city and, in a noisy though generally
orderly procession, headed for vantage points within sight of Circular Quay where a monster
fireworks display was to herald in the New Year.

By mid-evening, some of the most popular viewing spots, such as Bradleys Head and the
Botanic Gardens, had been closed off to avoid overcrowding.

But the crush was starting to take it toll at some locations along the water's edge.

Early birds who had claimed the best spots in the shadow of the harbour bridge were
beginning to look frayed as darkness fell.

Many, including young families, had spread rugs hours before, intending to stand their ground.

But some retreated rather than risk being swamped by latecomers.

A few who stayed were trampled on.

Meanwhile, it was almost standing room only in the historic Rocks area where young
revellers blasted away on "millennium whistles" and street vendors did roaring trade in
millennium souvenirs.

Next to them, drinks stalls had no trouble unloading their alcoholic wares at eight
dollars a can.

Among the masses were some with a more formal appreciation of the occasion, who hurried
to restaurant and function bookings dressed in evening gowns and tuxedos.

Under leaden skies, they at least appeared guaranteed a dry New Year.

AAP jk/sb/it

KEYWORD: EVE SCENE

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