Mount Barker’s annual Christmas Carols and Fireworks will move to a new location this year, as Mount Barker District Council considers the future of fireworks on public land.
The event will be held at Tip Tree Farm on the corner of Paech Road and Heysen Boulevard in Aston Hills on Saturday the 5th of December, after being held at Summit Sport and Recreation Park last year.
The move comes as council seeks community feedback on whether fireworks should continue to be held on public land and, if so, which locations may be suitable.
Concerns over livestock and wildlife
The future of fireworks in Mount Barker has been under discussion since last year’s Carols at Summit Sport and Recreation Park.
The venue was chosen to accommodate larger crowds and provide space for traffic management, parking and a safe fireworks launch zone. However, its proximity to primary production areas and the Laratinga Wetlands has raised concerns about the impact of fireworks on livestock and native wildlife.
A local cattle producer reported that livestock panicked during last year’s approximately six-minute display, with cattle breaking through fencing. One pedigree heifer suffered injuries and was later euthanised.
Wildlife advocates also raised concerns about birds around the nearby wetlands, including reports of disorientation during the display. A petition calling for the fireworks to be moved attracted more than 300 signatures earlier this year.
Laratinga Wetlands is recognised by council as an important habitat for resident, migratory and nomadic birds, with more than 150 bird species recorded at the site.
In May, council resolved to undertake broader community engagement before deciding whether fireworks should continue on public land.
Community can have its say
Council is asking residents whether they support fireworks on public land as part of community events and why, as well as suggestions for suitable locations if fireworks continue via the YourSay website.
Feedback is open until the 21st of October and is expected to be presented to council in November.
The Christmas Carols event has been held for around 20 years and has previously moved between Keith Stephenson Park, Mount Barker Showgrounds and Summit Sport and Recreation Park as crowds have grown.
This year’s event on 5 December at Tip Tree Farm will include the usual Christmas carols, entertainment, food stalls and children’s activities, followed by the fireworks display.
Image below: 2024 Carols at Mt Barker Oval by Dronie Ward, supplied
Image below: 2025 Carols at Summit Sports Park by Dronie Ward, supplied
