Sydney may be on high alert for terror threats this New Year's Eve, but the man in charge of the world-famous fireworks is confident all will run smoothly.
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Fortunato Foti, who has been directing the Sydney fireworks since 1997, said that from his end security had been "nothing out of the ordinary".
"There's been no increased interest, it's all as per what we normally do," Mr Foti said.
"We always have 24-hour security on site."
Contrary to rumours, Mr Foti also confirmed there was no New Year's Eve tribute planned for Katrina Dawson and Tori Johnson, the two Sydneysiders killed in the Martin Place siege.
"No, that's just hearsay," he said.
On Saturday, Assistant Police Commissioner Michael Fuller announced that a "record" number of police would be on duty on New Year's Eve, working 3000 more shifts than they would on a regular evening.
However, Assistant Commissioner Fuller added that a heightened presence was usual on New Year's Eve, and that "it's got nothing to do with recent terror threats".
"We know that Sydneysiders are confident to come out and we'd certainly like to see them out in big numbers for New Year's Eve," he said.
More than 1.5 million people are expected to flock to Sydney Harbour to witness the spectacular display.
Mr Foti and his 50-strong crew have been busy setting up seven tonnes of fireworks since December 21, equipping several barges and the Harbour Bridge itself to go up in an explosion of colour in 9pm and midnight displays.
Eighteen laptop computers will be used to set off over 15,000 cues.
Revellers will enjoy familiar favourites and new surprises in the 2014 show, with Mr Foti listing umbrellas with crackling centres and gold palms with coloured tips as some highlights that haven't been seen before.
"And then we've got smiley faces, hearts – the usual stuff that everyone loves," he said.
Scattered showers are predicted, but Mr Foti isn't fussed.
"It makes it uncomfortable for the punters," he said. "But the fireworks are all covered in plastic, they'll fire regardless of the weather."
All is expected to go well on the night, with back up procedures and protocols firmly in place and checks occurring up until half an hour before firing.
"I don't foresee any issues, it should all run smoothly," Mr Foti said.
"Hopefully it'll go off with a bang."
