Revellers were out in force at the weekend, as locals and visitors alike gathered to see in the new year.
Venues were packed early Friday evening, a quiet expectation hung in the air, and spirits were high.
When the clocks hit midnight a collective sigh of relief could be heard across Deniliquin.
In its place? A collective hope — albeit reserved — for the year ahead.
Families staked out a spot on the lawns of the Deniliquin Boat Club, satisfied themselves with fresh cooked food from one of two food trucks, and staved off the heat with a chilled beverage.
Children entertained themselves with a jumping castle.
Some simply ran freely, sporting neon glow-in-the-dark accessories — the closest to fireworks on the night.
A lucky few paddled out onto the river from the dock, a perfect way to beat the heat on what was a stifling 30 degree day.
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Enjoying the evening: Party-goers at the Deniliquin Boat Club enjoyed food and drink by the Edward River on New Year’s Eve.Image 2 of 6
Enjoying the evening: Party-goers at the Deniliquin Boat Club enjoyed food and drink by the Edward River on New Year’s Eve.Image 3 of 6
Enjoying the evening: Party-goers at the Deniliquin Boat Club enjoyed food and drink by the Edward River on New Year’s Eve.Image 4 of 6
Enjoying the evening: Party-goers at the Deniliquin Boat Club enjoyed food and drink by the Edward River on New Year’s Eve.Image 5 of 6
Enjoying the evening: Party-goers at the Deniliquin Boat Club enjoyed food and drink by the Edward River on New Year’s Eve.Image 6 of 6
Enjoying the evening: Party-goers at the Deniliquin Boat Club enjoyed food and drink by the Edward River on New Year’s Eve.Others opted for an entirely indoor celebration, with the airconditioning at the Deniliquin RSL and Deniliquin Bowling clubs particularly enticing for revellers.
Some got the chance to celebrate the New Year early, with the Deniliquin RSL giving away an almost $14,000 membership draw before the clock struck midnight.
Annette Ross was the lucky winner.
As a ‘draw until won’ draw, it took 24 tries before a member on the premises came out.
Jackpots rang in alongside the new year at the bustling Deni RSL as one lucky local started the year off with an extra $14,000 and change in their hip pocket.
The celebrations then continued with DJ Grug, games and prizes all part of the New Year’s Eve Party.
Guests at the Deni Bowling Club were also given the opportunity to go home with some prizes in the new year, with meat raffles, a spin and win and ‘toss the boss’ activities all on offer during the end of year party.