And the response? A bit of a fizzer, with about 20 people turning up to hand over the contraband.

Either we have no leftover fireworks, or, as citizens have reported via radio and elsewhere through the week, offenders are just lighting the wick then running.

Which raises the issue of just how the ban, and the amnesty, can be policed.

How many convictions have been recorded over past Queen's Birthday weekends (and weeks afterwards) in correlation to the reported cases of destruction and of cruelty to animals? It is almost impossible to keep tabs on those who break the law and spoil the enjoyment of others.

Will the fear of a $3000 fine be enough?

The fireworks issue has polarised Canberra for many years. The annual reports of letterbox destruction, animal welfare problems and danger to individuals rival the nostalgic childhood recollections, the family cracker night fun and the defiant pride Canberra has had in the knowledge that it went where none of the boring states would go. But the Government has spoken, and there has been a collective sigh within the community a sigh of relief that we finally have a ban and the annual arguments are over, mixed with resignation that the battle is lost.

But another issue looks set to ignite the passion of warriors who feel the loss of fireworks adds to the ''soulless Canberra/nanny state'' tag that of the Government's decision to ban shop racks in public places.

Businesses and pedestrians alike are mostly incredulous at the move to eliminate shop-front paraphernalia.

No more book-sale specials outside book shops, no more colourful shoe racks, no more comics, records, CDs, DVDs, cheap pharmacy gifts or even stands with brochures.

For more, pick up a copy of today's Canberra Times