Things to do

New Year’s Eve: Locals and visitors reflect on 2019 and look to 2020

We ask people about their highlight and what they’re looking forward to most.

  • Jake

    My highlight has to be getting a puppy. It’s a mini groodle called Maya.

    I’m also a tour guide at BridgeClimb and feel pretty lucky taking people up there.

    In 2020 I hope to travel around New Zealand, especially Queenstown, for the scenery and adventure.

    Credit: Katherine Griffiths
  • Maria

    My highlight has been seeing my daughter graduate from UNSW.

    In 2020 I hope to do more volunteer work at my local church. Sydney is so multicultural and everyone here is so friendly – I want to give something back to my community.

    Credit: Katherine Griffiths
  • Ruzman

    I’m visiting Sydney from Kuala Lumpur. I was last here for New Year’s Eve in 1995.

    My highlight this year has been taking up photography – and this trip to Sydney. In 2020 I’m most looking forward travelling to Kyrgyzstan and horse riding on the mountain trails.

    For New Year’s Eve this year I’ll be in Doha in Qatar. I’ll definitely tune in to watch the fireworks in Sydney!

    Credit: Katherine Griffiths
  • Rosalia and Lotus

    We’re passionate about the environment and human rights. Our highlight of 2019 has been seeing government at all levels taking action on this.

    In 2020 we hope to see more people doing their bit to address climate change.

    Credit: Katherine Griffiths
  • Doreen

    My highlight was turning 91 last Saturday!

    What am I looking forward to in 2020? I don’t think ahead. I live for the day!

    Credit: Katherine Griffiths
  • Chris

    My highlight of the year so far has been creating a mini comedy series on YouTube.

    My friends and I are a creative bunch and love making people laugh.

    In 2020 I’m looking forward to completing my uni course and hope to build a photography business.

    I love New Year’s Eve in Sydney. My dad works on Garden Island and we often get seats there to watch the fireworks.

    Credit: Katherine Griffiths

New Year’s Eve is an opportunity to celebrate, reflect on the year and look to the future.

With tickets for some spots to view the fireworks already on sale, it’s never too early to plan your night.

Published 3 September 2019, updated 6 January 2020