AN alcohol-free family event on the Newcastle Foreshore on New Year's Eve will provide Novocastrians with a positive focus for the new millennium.
Celebrated in more than 130 cities around the world FIRST NIGHT celebrations originated in Boston and will be marked in Newcastle for the first time this year.
Coordinator ALEX SLEE, who has been contracted by NEWCASTLE CITY COUNCIL to organise the event, explained the concept.
'It's the last night of the year,' she said.
'But rather than the negative impact of the word last" we focus on looking forward.'
Miss Slee, who worked on First Night celebrations in Toronto, Canada, last year, said materials would be provided for the construction of a community sculpture on the night.
It is hoped the inspiration for sculptures will be 'the dreams of Newcastle's children, and casting off old regrets'.
Newcastle reggae and roots group TRYBE and a percussion band will perform at the celebration, at the frogpond, amphitheatre and carriage sheds.
The percussion band will be led by PETER HARBULOT, with MARK JOHNSON on flute and the Latino players club.
There will also be screenings of the history of Newcastle and the past year, and films from this year's SHOOTOUT FILM FESTIVAL. At midnight the celebration will culminate with a fireworks display over the harbour.
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