After two successful years, Skyworks will not be back for a third following the withdrawal of its biggest backer, Thomas Bros.

Wagga City Council's attempts to find a new operator have so far been unsuccessful, with applicants in the initial tender phase failing to meet the criteria.

Held at Lake Albert on December 31, 2017 and 2018, Skyworks proved a hit.

According to council estimates, more than 10,000 people turned out on each occasion to ring in the new year.

Some of the relatively minor gripes from the first event - a lack of toilets, not enough bins and the need for improved traffic management - were ironed out for the second.

As a result, there was a feeling that Skyworks was here to stay and Wagga had found the perfect family-friendly event with which to usher in a new year.

Unfortunately, the reality of holding these types of events is that they require an awful lot of time and an awful lot of money in order to be successful.

About 12 months ago, Thomas Bros warned the second instalment of Skyworks was in doubt unless council could offer more financial support.

The cost of putting on the fireworks displays - one in the lead up to midnight and one earlier in the evening to cater for children - was particularly expensive.

Eventually that support came in the form of a $50,000 grant.

The money was still less than what the organisers had hoped for, but enough to ensure Skyworks went ahead for a second year. However, the council is steadfast that it does not have the money to exceed the $50,000 contribution it has set aside.

It would be a tremendous shame if a New Year's Eve celebration was lost to Wagga.

Residents have demonstrated the past two years with Skyworks that they will support a well-planned and well-run event.

Hopefully there is an organisation - be it a private business, service club or a combination of the two - out there that can fill the breach.

All the best for the week ahead, Ross.