Home / Arts and Entertainment / Riverfire Transport Fails: Crowds Crushed, Delays Ensue
Riverfire Transport Fails: Crowds Crushed, Delays Ensue
24 Aug
Summary
- Public transport capacity for Riverfire was underestimated significantly.
- Last year's event saw dangerous crowd crushes and long delays.
- This year's transport plan drastically increases capacity for attendees.
Last year's Riverfire spectacular in Brisbane saw a significant underestimation of public transport needs, resulting in dangerous crowd crushes and prolonged delays for attendees. In the 90 minutes following the event, authorities are now planning for 36,500 additional bus trips, a nearly fivefold increase compared to the previous year's allowance of 7800.
Record crowds overwhelmed the system, particularly at the Cultural Centre busway station, leading some to abandon travel plans. With over 500,000 people expected this year on September 5, managing the immediate post-fireworks rush from South Bank remains a key challenge. New strategies include dedicated shuttle buses, enhanced signage, additional customer service staff, and increased security.
Queensland Rail will operate 80 more train services than last year, with specialist teams deployed to manage safe boarding at busy stations. Police will monitor CCTV feeds to adapt traffic and crowd management plans in real-time. Organizers have worked closely with transport authorities and police to address feedback, focusing on high-demand areas like South Bank and the Cultural Centre precinct.
