Public transport lights up Riverfire

Public transport will be the easiest and cheapest way to enjoy all the CBD vantage points when the sky explodes with colour and light at this year’s Riverfire.

Assistant Minister for Public Transport Steve Minnikin said additional services had been arranged for the 500,000 people expected to head to and from South Bank and the CBD for the event.

“TransLink will be running 500 additional train and bus services throughout the afternoon and evening,” Mr Minnikin said.

“For anyone catching a train or bus home, we’re once again making public transport from South Bank stations free for two hours after the fireworks finish.

“This makes it an even better night out for families heading to Brisbane from other regions.”

Organisers are urging crowds to arrive early to enjoy the aerial displays late in the afternoon, building to the half-hour fireworks extravaganza at 7pm.

The additional bus and train services will operate from South Bank, Mater Hill and Cultural Centre busway stations, as well as South Brisbane and South Bank train stations.

Mr Minnikin said free travel was not available on the CityCat network which won't operate during the fireworks however services would resume as quickly as possible after the fireworks.

“Riverfire is one of the biggest events in TransLink’s calendar, with more services running across all modes of public transport than on New Year’s Eve,” he said.

“It’s a good idea to plan your journey ahead of time so you’re well placed to take advantage of all the extra services.”

Extra train services will also operate from Central and Roma Street stations on many lines between midnight and 6am Sunday.

A full list of services is available at www.translink.com.au, or phone 13 12 30, anytime. 

Those planning to walk from South Bank to the CBD to catch taxis home are encouraged to wait at secure taxi ranks. The closest secure taxi ranks to the South Bank precinct are at the Treasury Casino and on Elizabeth Street (opposite the Myer Centre).