The report follows a meeting held recently to discuss the outcome of changes made to 2009 New Year celebrations.

Last year the council decided not to hold an organised event and to instead focus on creating a family-friendly environment at Nelson Bay. Initiatives such as crowd control barriers, lighting, signage and extra rubbish bins cost the council a total of $15,600. The report from council's integrated planning manager Trevor Allen said police and residents were happy with the outcome. 'The police and council have received positive feedback from residents, visitors and business owners,' the report said. 'The strategies put in place were successful and resulted in a better behaved crowd."