An estimated 10,000 people took over the shores of Lake Albert as a world-class fireworks display farewelled 2018 welcomed 2019.

Committee member Jamie Way said it was “great to see so many people supporting this event”.

“As far as I could tell, it was well received,” he said.

“People had plenty of space on the foreshores to hear music and watch the fireworks.”

Thunderstorms threatened the event at one stage during the day, but the skies cleared when night came around.

A 15-minute display at 9.30pm ensured the visit was well worth the trip for many who came in from out of town.

One of the changes included launching fireworks from the shore due to shallow water levels.

“There was a lack of clearance for the the barges to launch the fireworks,” Mr Way said.

“It was mostly a safety and access issue and access.”

Traffic management was also another major change based on feedback.

“It was part of management’s strategy to create better flow,” Mr Way said.

“I haven’t talked to too many people yet, but compared with last year, it flowed better.

“Credit to Riverina Traffic Services and all committee members involved in working with council to get the best strategy.”

Mr Way said the committee will debrief in the coming days and begin to plan for the 2019 event.

The event also raised funds for Wagga charity Country Hope.

Tom Looney at Country Hope thanked all who donated and said the event “was on par if not better than the first event”.

“There were questions marks about the 2018 event, but the amount of people who turned up and the community response to donations indicate that this event is something they want,” Mr Looney said.

“While we’re still counting, I believe it’d be in excess of last year’s – people were willing to contribute money as volunteers went through the crowd.

”We also saw thousands of children having an absolute ball.”

The final amount raised is still being processed.

Wagga Police Acting Inspector Phil Malligan praised attendees for their positive behaviour.

“The crowd behaviour was fantastic...there were no incidents at Lake Albert,” Inspector Malligan said.

“Again, there was a high police presence on the ground and on the roads.

“It was certainly great to see more than 10,000 people.”​

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