Garrison deployed for The Last Jedi stunt in Sydney Harbour
On the evening of Tuesday, October 10, the Southern Cross Garrison helped celebrate the release of the new Star Wars: The Last Jedi theatrical trailer and the launch of tickets sales for the midnight screenings of the film in the only Disney endorsed event globally.
With the iconic Sydney Harbour serving as a backdrop, the 501st Legion assembled at the foot of the Fleet Steps, joined by sister organisations Rebel Legion, the Mandalorian Mercenaries and the R2-D2 Builders Club.
As the sun began setting at 7 pm, fans of Star Wars began arriving at the scenic location, lured by the promise of an elusive promotional "stunt" only 24hrs prior via social media.
Photo credit: Garrison CO
With over 30 characters in costume, time was spent taking photos with fans and the clients of Disney, with people asking us what was going on, a lot of answers of "we don't know, but it starts at 8 pm".
As 8 pm arrived, the crowds looked up to the sky as the thumping of a helicopter signalled it’s approach behind the tree line of Mrs Macquarie’s Chair.
"What a night! What a blast!!! The atmosphere was buzzing and the onlookers loved it!" said Darren Vaughan
The helicopter, equipped with a blazing floodlight circled the scene prior to descending towards a barge centred in Farm Cove. The onlookers were amazed by the sight of the helicopter slowly but surely lifted a gigantic, 60m long, glowing Kylo Ren lightsaber into the evening sky.
Photo credit: Mack Stockhausen
Film crews recorded the event, capturing the dreaded Kylo Ren and his First Order Stormtrooper escort.
After about an hour, the helicopter delivered it’s cargo back to the barge, before leaving the event and participants for a final opportunity for photos.
"It was an epic troop and great to be a part of!", Andy Price reflected.
The promotion received considerable media attention also:
Media
- Official video from Disney's Star Wars web team
- The force is with Sydney as light show wows [Daily Telegraph]
- Giant 60m Lightsaber is flying through Sydney skies
- A Giant Lightsaber Was Floating Over Sydney Harbour Last Night
Social Media
The night left quite an impression on 501st Legion members also.
"Such a great troop and such a privilege to be asked as a Garrison to be invited to this special event", mentioned Amy Armriding.
The Southern Cross Garrison looks forward to joining Disney, Lucasfilm and the greater Star Wars costuming family for many future events to come.