Tasmania’s annual Cracker Night tradition has been saved following a shipping exemption granted by the Victorian Government.
The future of the event was thrown into doubt last year when Victoria announced port restrictions on fireworks shipments, which would have cut off Tasmania’s only supply route.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff confirmed the state government has successfully advocated for an exception to the Victorian restrictions.
“Our government wrote to the Victorian government to advocate against this change,” Rockliff said.
“We are glad to hear the shipping exemption will be granted, ensuring Tasmanians will be able to enjoy Cracker Night.”
The decision ensures Tasmania’s main firework importer, Brightstar Fireworks, will receive an importation licence, allowing the continuation of the traditional celebration.
Shannon Palmer, co-owner of Brightstar Fireworks, said he was relieved at the outcome.
“We are pleased an importation licence will now be issued, and are grateful to the Victorian Government and Work Safe Victoria for their decision which will enable us to safely ship fireworks to Tasmania for this year’s Cracker Night,” Palmer said.
