City of Melbourne's vast drone display, which was originally slated for New Year's Eve, is now taking to Docklands this month.
Lord Mayor Sally Capp said the much-anticipated drone show will run twice a night from Saturday 15 January until until Sunday 30 January, and feature 350 individual drones.
The drone show will take place every night from Saturday 15 January until 30 January. Shows will take place at approximately 9.30pm and 10.30pm and run for eight minutes.
What you need to know
- A 350-strong drone show is happening every night from Jan 15-30
- The eight minute display will happen twice per night at 9:30pm and 10:30pm
- It’s free, with no tickets required, and only in good weather
Keep up to date with Melbourne’s latest art events, exhibitions and performances here.
“This is your chance to get down to Docklands and enjoy the first ever drone show in Melbourne,” the Lord Mayor said.
“The drone swarm has been expertly choreographed to create an incredible show – featuring a unique series of images representing Melbourne and accompanied by special compositions.”
“This is an entirely free event, and I would encourage everyone to book a local venue or sit along the harbour and enjoy the show.
“Docklands provides an ideal venue with plenty of outdoor space to deliver this display safely – please remember to wear a mask and socially distance as required.
“While the cancellation of the New Year’s Eve drone event was disappointing, we can’t wait to stun crowds and support local businesses with this breathtaking display throughout January.”
The aerial display has been developed by drone-art company Celestial, which delivered Edinburgh’s 2020 New Year drone display, as well as a drone art creation for Amnesty International’s 60th anniversary.
Each show will be accompanied by one of two compositions – the first by Victorian poet Renn Alessandra is about reconnecting with each other and the city. The second, ‘How The Platypus (Dulai Wurrung) Was Made’ is told and illustrated by Wurundjeri, Dja Dja wurrung and Ngurai illum wurrung artist Mandy Nicholson.
Celestial CEO Tony Martin said his team has established a base in Melbourne and have all the equipment they need.
“We are incredibly excited to be delivering another landmark show that pulls together so many creative threads. The end result will be like nothing seen in Australia,” Mr Martin said.
“For us, this is the starting point for the journey to establish our Australian business – hiring talented people from the aviation, creative, technology, and events sectors.
“We want to create a world class team to mirror the huge talents in our UK team. We see Melbourne as home from home and essential to our southern hemisphere business going forward.”
The drone show is being delivered through the $100 million Melbourne City Recovery Fund – a joint partnership between the City of Melbourne and the Victorian Government.
Tickets are not required, and shows will only go ahead if weather conditions are suitable. For more updates visit the council’s What’s On website.
