The sail-shaped landmark featured in Sydney's New Year's Eve fireworks is the Sydney Opera House.
The Sydney Opera House stands on Bennelong Point beside Sydney Harbour, close to the Harbour Bridge. Its roof consists of large shell-like structures that resemble sails, making it one of Australia's most recognizable buildings. During the city's New Year's Eve celebration, the building is often illuminated and framed by fireworks over the harbour.
Danish architect Jørn Utzon designed the Opera House, and construction began in 1959. The building officially opened in 1973. Its distinctive form helped make Sydney's harborfront celebration an internationally broadcast image, even though the fireworks are launched from several places rather than from the Opera House alone.
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is the other central landmark in the display and is commonly mistaken for the sail-shaped building. The bridge supports some fireworks effects, while the Opera House provides the unmistakable white roof shells visible in many photographs and broadcasts.