City of Darwin is encouraging residents to celebrate Territory Day safely and responsibly, while taking steps to protect pets, wildlife and the environment.

Lord Mayor Peter Styles said Territory Day was a uniquely Territorian tradition and encouraged residents to enjoy the festivities while showing consideration for others.

“Territory Day is one of the most anticipated days on our calendar and a chance to celebrate what makes the Territory such a special place to live,” Mr Styles said.

“While fireworks are a much-loved part of the celebrations, it is important that everyone plays their part in keeping our community safe, looking after their pets and helping to keep Darwin clean.

“Every year we see an increase in lost pets on Territory Day, with many animals becoming frightened by the noise of fireworks.

“We encourage pet owners to prepare ahead of time by keeping pets indoors where possible, ensuring fences are secure and checking that registration and microchip details are up to date.

“Territory Day celebrations can also leave behind significant amounts of litter and firework debris, which can pose a safety risk and impact our environment, wildlife and shared public spaces if not disposed of properly.

“We encourage anyone enjoying Territory Day to support community clean-up efforts by correctly disposing of fireworks and litter following the celebrations.

“We also remind residents attending Territory Day events to follow local parking regulations and use designated parking areas.

“Large crowds are expected at Mindil Beach for the Territory Day fireworks display, and parking on verges, footpaths and shared paths can create safety risks and obstruct access for pedestrians, cyclists and emergency services.

“City of Darwin Rangers will be monitoring parking throughout the evening and infringement notices may be issued to vehicles parked illegally.

“By celebrating responsibly, cleaning up after ourselves and being mindful of our neighbours, pets and environment, we can help ensure Territory Day remains a safe and enjoyable event for everyone,” he said.

To support the community and help protect public spaces, City of Darwin will implement a range of additional measures on Territory Day, including:

• Providing skip bins from 1 July in key locations for people to dispose of their used fireworks, including along Bundilla, Fannie Bay, East Point and Nightcliff foreshores, as well as at Bicentennial Park, Malak Oval, Anula Park and McMinn Street carpark
• Rostering additional Rangers to assist with displaced and lost pets
• Locking City of Darwin-owned tennis courts from 6.30 pm on Territory Day until 6.00 am the following morning
• Fencing synthetic and turf cricket wickets to prevent damage
• Closing East Point Reserve from 5.00 pm on Territory Day until 5.00 am the following morning to prevent vehicle and pedestrian access, protect wildlife and minimise impacts on the Reserve

Pet safety tips

• Keep your pet indoors while fireworks are being used
• Stay home with your pet where possible and provide a safe, quiet place for them
• Close windows and curtains and provide background noise such as a fan, television or music
• Give dogs something positive to focus on, such as long-lasting chews
• Ensure fences, gates and enclosures are secure
• Make sure your pet is microchipped, registered and wearing identification tags with up-to-date contact details
• Consider using calming products such as Pet Relax or ADAPTIL to help reduce anxiety in pets. Free Pet Relax products are available from City of Darwin Libraries while stocks last
• Consult your veterinarian if your pet is particularly sensitive to loud noises

Clean-up tips

• Bring rubbish bags when celebrating outdoors
• Pick up all used fireworks and litter after celebrations
• Dispose of used fireworks in the skip bins provided across Darwin
• Do not set off fireworks near waterways, bushland or beaches where debris can impact wildlife and the environment
• Never place unused or defective fireworks in general waste bins – these can be taken to an NT WorkSafe office or police station for safe disposal

City of Darwin teams will be out across the municipality on 2 July undertaking clean-up activities, and residents are encouraged to do their part to prevent litter entering the environment.

Residents who lose a pet on Territory Day, or need to report an issue, can contact City of Darwin on 08 8930 0606 during business hours or 08 8930 0900 after hours.

For information on celebrating Territory Day safely and legally, visit NT Police, Fire and Emergency Services.

For more information about Territory Day safety measures and pet welfare, visit darwin.nt.gov.au/community/things-to-do/community-celebrations/territory-day-celebrations