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UFC Champ Alexander Volkanovski Gives Back to Bondi Beach Community

In partnership with Tyro Payments, Alexander Volkanovski, former UFC featherweight world champion, provided a $20,000 bar tab for the public at Ravesis, Bondi Beach, drawing large crowds and creating a vibrant community atmosphere.

The event aimed to support Australian businesses and reward the community.

Community Engagement and Support

The event saw locals and visitors gather to enjoy free food and drinks, with many also participating in prize giveaways. These prizes included hotel stays, merchandise, and vouchers, adding to the day’s excitement. Volkanovski, named “Chief Tap Out Officer” for Tyro’s “Big Buyout” campaign, expressed his commitment to supporting small businesses.

Alexander Volkanovski stated that he understands entrepreneurs’ challenges, drawing from his experiences in launching ventures like Engage Sportswear and Cooking with Volk. He emphasised his gratitude for the support he had received throughout his career and his desire to give back to the community.

Tyro’s Campaign and Business Support

Tyro Payments’ “Big Buyout” campaign aims to assist Australian businesses facing increased supply costs and cash flow difficulties. The campaign seeks practical support and raise awareness of small businesses’ challenges.

The event at Bondi Beach served as a public demonstration of this commitment, bringing together the community and highlighting the importance of supporting local businesses.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The event was further enhanced by a performance from Peking Duk singer Lucy Washington, who entertained the large crowd. Volkanovski expressed his satisfaction with the event, noting the positive atmosphere and the smiles on attendees’ faces.

He reiterated that the primary goal was to support small business owners and provide a fun, engaging experience for the community. The event was a success, with many people enjoying socialising and celebrating.

Published Date 20-March-2025

Pedestrian Injured at Bondi Beach as E-Scooter Debate Grows

Photo Credit: Icsilviu/Pixabay

Are e-scooters too dangerous for Australian streets? After a pedestrian was injured in a Bondi Beach crash, debate over safety regulations is heating up again.

Pedestrian Injured in E-Scooter Accident

A 30-year-old man was knocked off the pavement by an e-scooter on Bondi Beach, leaving him injured on the footpath and reigniting concern over e-scooter safety. The 41-year-old rider was tested for drugs on the roadside, while emergency workers treated the footpath pedestrian. It is adding to growing outrage at the danger e-scooters pose to pedestrians and drivers.

Rise in E-Scooter-Related Injuries

The Bondi Beach crash is symptomatic of a larger issue, with Queensland hospitals seeing a 25% increase in e-scooter injuries over the last year.

Riders tend to disregard helmet laws, with fines of up to $410 in New South Wales. Members of the community have been calling for stricter laws, with some describing dangerous e-scooter riders as a “feral” threat on public roads.

Are Current Laws Enough?

Conflicting laws right around Australia have made enforcement difficult. Some states ban e-scooters from footpaths and speed limit them to 25km/h, but infringements are rife. In Queensland, drunken e-scooter drivers can now lose licences, but other states are still mulling following suit.

Balancing Convenience and Safety

While e-scooters provide an environmentally friendly option for transportation, critics argue public safety is at risk without enhanced enforcement. Sydney lawyer Jess Lyons argues that more education for riders, rather than outright bans, would be a means of reducing accidents while still providing e-scooters as an option for transportation.

With e-scooters increasingly popular in Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne, state governments are coming under pressure to tighten up safety laws. Whether by dedicated lanes, better rider education, or increased penalties, the debate for and against e-scooters is far from over.

Published 20-March-2025

Westfield Malls Introduce Body Cameras Following Bondi Beach Stabbing

Photo Credit: LadyTasker/X

In response to the tragic stabbings at Bondi Beach’s Westfield shopping centre, which resulted in six deaths, security guards across Australia’s Westfield malls will now wear body-worn cameras.

Westfield Malls Introduce Body Cameras Following Bondi Beach Stabbing — *Photo Credit:* *Clinton Maynard/TwitterX*

Scentre Group, the operator of 42 Westfield shopping centres, has implemented body-worn cameras to enhance the security of shoppers and staff. This follows the introduction of stab-proof vests for security personnel after the Bondi Beach incident.

The cameras will record audio and video when security guards believe their safety, or the safety of others, is at risk. Signage has been placed at entrances to inform the public that they may be filmed in the centres. The operators have also stated that being filmed is a condition of entry.

Criminologist Justin Ready from Griffith University observed the growing trend of private companies using body-worn cameras. However, he noted there is no concrete evidence that these devices prevent crime. He stressed that the effectiveness of the cameras depends on the specific policies and how they are used, and that people need to be aware they are being recorded.

Queensland Council of Civil Liberties president Michael Cope expressed concern about the increase in surveillance, arguing that society is giving up too much privacy for perceived safety. He pointed out that security guards do not have the same legal powers as police officers and that the laws governing such surveillance devices are inadequate.

Public reactions online have largely questioned the usefulness of the cameras in preventing attacks, with many suggesting they will only record incidents rather than stop them. Several people have raised concerns about the training and pay of security staff and the duty of care shopping centres have for their employees.

A coronial inquest into the Bondi Beach stabbing incident is scheduled to take place in New South Wales next month.

Published Date 18-March-2025

“The Bondi” Penthouse Changes Hands for $16.25M

Photo Credit: PTW

A luxury penthouse atop “The Bondi” development has changed hands for $16.25 million, highlighting the continued strong demand for premium Bondi Beach real estate.

The three-bedroom, two-bathroom property, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass with ocean views from every room, was sold by commercial property executive Joshua Berger and his wife Michelle. The couple purchased the property in 2016 for $7,575,000 from former Ramsay Healthcare chief Chris Rex, yielding them a substantial return despite reportedly being discounted from an initial asking price of $18 million.

Designed by PTW Architects, the penthouse includes exclusive amenities such as personal valet and concierge services. The prestigious property, developed by Allen Linz and Eduard Litver, is now owned by Danielle Elkorr, who has demonstrated previous interest in Sydney’s premium real estate market.

The transaction comes as billionaire Will Vicars expands his already significant holdings in Bondi Beach, purchasing his seventh investment property in the nearby Pacific building. His latest $2.55 million acquisition brings his total investment in the Linz and Litver-developed block to over $45 million.

Both sales were handled by Steven Chen of The Agency, who declined to comment on the transactions.

These high-value sales underscore Bondi Beach’s position as one of Sydney’s most sought-after coastal locations, where luxury properties continue to attract wealthy investors despite broader market fluctuations.

Published 16-March-2025

E-Scooter Injuries on the Rise as Bondi Beach Incident Adds to Concerns

Photo Credit: Wikimedia

Bondi Beach locals are demanding action after yet another e-scooter accident left a man injured on the road, sparking fresh concerns over safety and regulations.

Bondi Beach E-Scooter Crash Sparks Safety Debate

A man in his 30s was left in hospital when he was hit by an e-scooter at Bondi Beach, igniting renewed criticism of e-scooter safety in Australia. The injured pedestrian was struck Monday evening, the 41-year-old rider meanwhile unscathed but tested for drugs. NSW Police are investigating.

Rising Safety Concerns

E-scooter injuries rose 25% in Queensland from 2022 to 2023, with multiple fatalities reported. While promoted as eco-friendly, unsafe riding, helmet violations, and lax regulations fuel accidents. Fines for helmet breaches stand at $410 in NSW and $161 in Queensland, but enforcement remains inconsistent.

Community Outrage and Calls for Stricter Rules

Bondi residents expressed dismay, demanding tougher laws or total bans in footpath zones. Many report near-misses daily, particularly involving families with small children. Parents are also raising concerns about children riding high-speed e-bikes without training or helmets, with some models reaching 40 km/h.

The Hidden Fire Risk: Lithium-Ion Batteries

Beyond road safety, e-scooter battery fires are increasing, with 11 incidents reported in NSW in just one week. A 21-year-old man was killed in a Sydney house fire caused by an e-bike battery. Firefighters warn improper charging and faulty batteries pose serious hazards. Insurer IAG is now working with global experts to establish safety guidelines for lithium-ion batteries.

The Push for Stronger Laws

Australia’s e-scooter legislation is still patchy, with differing regulations across states. Most are calling for nationwide rules, age limits, and increased penalties for reckless riders. E-scooters present an environmentally friendly transport alternative, but their safety hazards cannot be overlooked, and neighbourhoods are calling for immediate action.

Published 14-March-2025

Bondi Beach Ranked Among World’s Best, But Do Locals Agree?

Photo Credit: Pexels/Yifan Lai

Tourists love Bondi Beach, but does it really deserve a spot among the world’s best? Tripadvisor’s latest rankings have sparked a debate among Australians.

Bondi Named One of the World’s Best Beaches, But Locals Aren’t Convinced

Bondi Beach has been listed among the planet’s best 25 beaches in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards, but not everyone is pleased. While the international listing puts the Sydney icon on the world’s most stunning coastal locations, many locals believe it fails to reflect the best of Australia’s coast.

Two Australian Beaches Make the Cut

Bondi came in at number 24 on Tripadvisor’s annual list, with Manly Beach at 15, eight places down from its seventh place ranking in 2024. The world ranking, based on travellers’ ratings and reviews over the past 12 months, featured just two beaches from Sydney.

Tripadvisor has listed Bondi’s golden beach, renowned surf beaches, and scenic coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee as the top reasons for its ranking. Manly, however, was commended for its convenient ferry ride from Circular Quay, patrolled swimming pools, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Locals Divided Over the Rankings

Even with the global recognition, Sydneysiders were shocked to find Bondi and Manly as Australia’s representatives on the list. Although both beaches are undoubtedly iconic, others feel that other less popular destinations are more representative of the country’s natural beauty.

Bondi, though, is a resort area, with large crowds and expensive restaurants that take away from the beach experience, say some. Most locals prefer to visit less crowded beaches like Palm Beach, Freshwater, or Bronte that offer the same view without the crowds.

*Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons/Palm Beach*

Manly’s addition was less argumentative, with its casual charm and appeal, though some still question whether it is better than beaches like Queensland’s Whitehaven Beach or Tasmania’s Wineglass Bay, both longtime favourites on similar lists.

How the World’s Best Beaches Are Chosen

The 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards rely on a mix of millions of traveller reviews over the last year. Tripadvisor takes into account aspects such as water quality, landscape, activities, and overall visitor satisfaction to compile the rankings.

At the helm of this year’s best was Elafonissi Beach in Crete, Greece, because of its pink sand and crystal clear waters. The remaining beaches that joined the top five were Eagle Beach in Aruba, Cable Beach in Broome, and Praia da Falésia in Portugal.

Despite missing out on a top 10 spot, Bondi and Manly’s global recognition reinforces Sydney’s status as a world-class coastal destination—even if not all Australians agree.

Published 12-March-2025

Bondi Beach to Become More Inclusive with Major Accessibility Upgrades

Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most iconic coastal destinations, is set to become more accessible for people with disabilities as part of a $17.1 million investment aimed at improving access to the nation’s beaches.

Read: Bondi Beach Pollution: Sewage System Under Scrutiny Amid Debris Concerns

The funding will help local councils and surf lifesaving clubs install all-terrain wheelchairs, improve beach pathways and extend beach matting. Bondi Beach, a favourite among both locals and tourists, is among the key locations set to benefit, alongside other major destinations like Palm Cove, Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, Sorrento Beach, and Henley Beach.

As one of Australia’s busiest beaches, Bondi attracts millions of visitors each year. The improvements will ensure that people of all abilities can enjoy the sand, surf and vibrant coastal atmosphere.

Shane Hryhorec, founder of Accessible Beaches Australia, welcomed the initiative, calling it a step in the right direction.

Efforts to enhance accessibility are also expanding beyond beaches, with infrastructure projects aiming to improve access to national parks, public spaces, and recreational areas. Additional facilities are also being developed to support individuals with complex needs, ensuring a more inclusive experience across various environments.

Read: Probus Club Opens to Foster Social Connections Among Bondi Beach Retirees and Semi-Retirees

“Through Accessible Australia, we are significantly broadening the types of accessible infrastructure and amenities that will be built across Australia, providing access – for the first time for many – to national parks, beaches and play spaces,” Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said.

“These new facilities will be in addition to Changing Places projects recently announced, as we bolster our efforts to increase inclusion and promote accessible tourism.”

With these upgrades, Bondi Beach is set to reinforce its status as an inclusive destination, allowing more people to experience its world-renowned beauty and energy.

Published 28-February-2025

Bondi Beach Footy Scene Just Got Bigger with GameDay Squad and James Tedesco

Bondi Beach, a hotspot for sun, surf, and Sydney Roosters fans, is now making waves in the world of fantasy footy. Rugby League superstar James Tedesco has thrown his support behind GameDay Squad, an Australian fantasy sports platform changing how fans engage with the game.

With over 500,000 downloads on Google Play and a unique free-to-play model, the platform is drawing in Rugby League enthusiasts like never before.

Tedesco, the Roosters captain and a familiar face around Bondi, believes GameDay Squad brings a real coaching experience to fans. Unlike traditional fantasy leagues that rely on salary caps and weekly drafts, this platform allows users to collect, trade, and manage their teams year-round. He sees it as an opportunity for footy fans to experience the highs and lows of managing a team, much like the real thing.

Fantasy Footy’s Growing Presence in Australia

Fantasy sports are booming in Australia, with participation numbers doubling in the last three years. More than 2.4 million Australians now play, highlighting a shift in how fans connect with their favourite teams and players. GameDay Squad has positioned itself as a leader in this space, offering an accessible and strategic game without the usual pay-to-play restrictions.

Founder Callum Stone emphasised that the game’s free-to-play model makes it inclusive for all fans, allowing them to build a squad and compete at any level. He believes Tedesco is the perfect fit for the platform, given his leadership both on and off the field.

James Tadesco Sydney Roosters — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Sydney Roosters, Bondi Beach, and Community Engagement

Bondi Beach has long been associated with the Sydney Roosters, with many players living, training, or spending time in the area. Tedesco, as the Roosters’ captain, is often seen around Bondi, making him a natural connection between the local community and fantasy footy fans. His endorsement of GameDay Squad strengthens its presence among Rugby League supporters in the Eastern Suburbs and beyond.

As part of the partnership, GameDay Squad is hosting a launch event on Thursday, February 27, in Sydney, giving fans the chance to meet James Tedesco and get an exclusive preview of the 2025 season. With fantasy footy rapidly evolving, this event is expected to draw strong interest from the community.

For fans eager to join, sign-ups are free at www.gamedaysquad.com.au, and tickets for the launch event are available at Humanitix.

Luca & Luca to Bring Harrys Brews as Gelato to Bondi Beach

Photo Credit: Luca & Luca/ Instagram

Imagine your favourite Harrys coffee or matcha, but as gelato. That’s what’s coming to Bondi Beach with the exciting arrival of Luca & Luca.

A Sweet Transformation

Harry Lambropoulos, known for the popular Harrys cafe, will introduce Luca & Luca on Campbell Parade. This new venture shifts focus from coffee and matcha to gelato, featuring frozen treats replicating the cafe’s signature drinks.

The gelateria plans to create flavours that mirror Harrys’ robust coffee and popular iced matcha, offering a familiar taste in a new, cold form. The aim is to provide an alternate way for customers to enjoy the popular cafe’s offerings.

Creating a Whimsical Atmosphere

Lambropoulos intends to create an engaging and joyful space, describing it as a “Willy Wonka wonderland.” The design fosters a sense of childhood wonder, aiming to make enjoying gelato memorable. The gelateria’s interior is designed to be vibrant and inviting, enhancing the frozen dessert experience.

Crafting Authentic Gelato

It will produce all gelato on-site, prioritising quality and freshness. The emphasis is on crafting traditional Italian-style gelato, with attention to detail and traditional methods. The gelateria will have limited outdoor seating, encouraging customers to enjoy their gelato while experiencing the surrounding Bondi environment.

Anticipated Opening

The planned opening is before the end of February, generating considerable local excitement. Residents and tourists express eagerness to sample the fusion of Harrys’ well-known flavours with classic Italian gelato. It aims to become a destination, offering a unique dessert experience in the popular beachside.

Published Date 23-Feb-2025

Bondi Beach Lifeguard Appeals Sentence Following Domestic Violence Case

Photo Credit: Andrew Reid/Facebook

A well-known Bondi Rescue lifeguard is seeking to appeal his sentence after being found guilty of domestic violence common assault. Andrew Brian Reid, widely recognised as “Reidy” from the hit reality TV series, was sentenced to a 12-month good behaviour bond after an incident involving a woman in January 2024.

In December 2024, Mr Reid was found guilty of placing his hands around a woman’s neck and pushing her. The hearing revealed that there was a heated argument before Mr Reid forcefully held the woman’s neck for up to five seconds.

During a counselling session following the incident, Mr Reid reportedly admitted that he had acted in a fit of alcoholic rage, acknowledging that his actions were inappropriate. His counsellor’s notes in court recorded him saying he is not that kind of man while visibly upset.

Despite avoiding conviction, Mr Reid was placed under a 12-month good behaviour bond and remains subject to a two-year apprehended violence order (AVO).

Courtroom Dispute: Defence vs. Prosecution

Mr Reid’s defence team, led by barrister Margaret Cunneen SC, contested the credibility of the counsellor’s notes, arguing that they were recorded after the session rather than during it. However, the police prosecutor countered that the notes were written shortly after the session and aligned with the complainant’s testimony.

During the trial, Mr Reid defended himself by stating that he had taken the woman’s phone and, as she rushed toward him to retrieve it, he had merely “guided” her toward a bed with a hand on her neck. The prosecution rejected this explanation, maintaining that the victim’s testimony was credible and consistent.

Additional Allegations and Character Witnesses

Mr Reid also faced allegations of:

Biting the woman’s upper arm, leaving visible teeth marks.
Throwing a phone at her leg, causing a gash that required surgical glue.

However, these additional assault occasioning actual bodily harm charges were dismissed due to insufficient evidence proving deliberate intent.

Several of Mr Reid’s colleagues provided character references during the hearing, including former Bondi Rescue star Quinn Darragh and current lifeguard Ryan Clark, who is also a former Home and Away actor and a White Ribbon ambassador against violence towards women.

Mr Clark stated that he remains “an advocate for women’s rights” but did not believe the audio recording of Mr Reid arguing with the woman amounted to domestic violence. However, the magistrate disagreed, citing the “angry, abusive, and aggressive” nature of the recording.

Bondi Beach lifeguard — *Photo Credit: Andrew Reid/Facebook*

Next Steps: Mr Reid’s Legal Appeal

Mr Reid has formally appealed his sentence, with the case set to be mentioned in the NSW District Court in February 2025. His employment status with Waverley Council, which oversees Bondi Beach lifeguards, remains unclear, as the authorities have refused to confirm or comment on his position.

As legal proceedings continue, Mr Reid remains under the two-year AVO, and the outcome of his appeal could determine his future career and public standing.

Published 15-Feb-2025