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Four Men Charged in Bondi Beach Arson Attacks

Police have arrested four men in connection with two suspicious fires at Bondi Beach in October last year.

The first fire happened just after 2:00 a.m. on Thursday, 17 October 2024, when two men allegedly poured accelerant under the door of a business on Campbell Parade and set it alight. The fire burned itself out, but the building was significantly damaged. The second fire occurred at around 4:10 a.m. on Sunday, 20 October 2024, at a business on Curlewis Street. This fire caused extensive damage and forced residents to evacuate the building, although no one was injured.

Following an investigation, police arrested a 31-year-old man at a home in Jannali on Friday, 18 October. He was charged with destroying property with fire and drug possession. A second man, aged 37, was arrested at a correctional facility on Thursday, 12 December and charged with destroying property with fire.

In connection with the second fire, police arrested two more men on Tuesday, 14 January 2025. A 40-year-old man was arrested at Riverstone Police Station and charged with damaging property by fire, disguising his face with intent to commit an indictable offence, driving a stolen vehicle, and driving without a licence. A 26-year-old man was arrested at a home in Bardia and charged with being armed with intent to commit an indictable offence.

One of the businesses targeted was Lewis’ Continental Kitchen, a well-known kosher takeaway and catering business on Curlewis Street. This incident has raised concerns within the community about a possible rise in antisemitic attacks in Sydney. Lewis’ Continental Kitchen has been a part of the Bondi community for decades, starting as a catering business in the 1940s and expanding to include a retail shop.

This incident comes at a time when Jewish institutions and synagogues in Australia are facing increased security risks. There has been a rise in antisemitic incidents in 2024, including graffiti, vandalism, and online hate speech.

Police are still investigating the motives of the fires and asking anyone with information to come forward.

Published Date 15-Jan-2025

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

Photo Credit: Bondi Beach Probus Club

A new Probus Club in Bondi Beach will provide retirees and semi-retirees exciting social opportunities, offering monthly gatherings and group activities at the Waverley Library.

The club will hold its inaugural event—a free morning tea—on 11 February 2025 in the Theatrette Room at the Waverley Library on Denison Street, Bondi Junction. Attendees are invited to arrive at 9:45 a.m. for a 10:00 a.m. start.

A Social Hub for Bondi Beach Retirees

The Bondi Beach Probus Club aims to connect retirees and semi-retirees with monthly meetings featuring guest speakers, group outings, and interest-based activities. The organisers shared that those who attend and join on the day will receive foundation membership status.

Monthly meetings will occur at 10:00 a.m. every second Tuesday, beginning in March 2025. The goal is to offer a community-driven platform for members to remain socially, men tally, and physically active.

What Probus Offers

Probus is a non-profit organisation with 1,400 clubs across Australia, all dedicated to fostering friendships and fun among retirees and semi-retirees. Each club operates independently to provide opportunities such as group outings, day trips, holidays, and interest-based gatherings.

New members will pay a one-time joining fee of $30 to cover administration fee and a name badge. The Club has also set an annual membership fee of $60 to cover venue hire, insurance, and other administrative costs.

The Bondi Beach chapter joins an established network of Probus Clubs in the Eastern Suburbs, ensuring those interested in connecting can find a club close to home. For residents outside Bondi, Probus South Pacific offers an online tool to locate nearby clubs.

It’s important to have mental stimulation and things to look forward to. Probus provides those every month as well as lasting friendships.
Dawn Whitworth

How to Join

Residents interested in joining the Bondi Beach Probus Club can RSVP by contacting Community Engagement Officer Isabella at 1300 630 488 or register below:

Even those unable to attend the first meeting are encouraged to register to stay informed about future events.

Probus Club Bondi Beach focuses on fun, community, and connection, offering a welcome space for retirees and semi-retirees to meet like-minded individuals and explore new opportunities during retirement.

Probus on the Radio

We would have no hesitation in advising other people to join a Probus Club and to get involved with the administrative functions of the Club. It’s a magic opportunity to meet new friends and even to learn of useful activities or of social issues provided by speakers. Most Probians are a happy lot and this is contagious for others. It can be exciting especially for people who want to be involved in activities after leaving the workforce.
Fred Travis

Published 13-January-2025

Nate Myles to Mould Future Stars: Roosters Great Joins Storm Coaching Staff

Remember the relentless firebrand who used to tear up the field for the Sydney Roosters? Nate Myles, the man who never took a backward step, is back in the NRL, but this time he’s trading his boots for a clipboard.

Read: Bondi Beach Dining: The Shop and Wine Bar’s Local Charm

From Origin camp to coaching staff

After hanging up his playing boots in 2017 with a premiership win at the Melbourne Storm, Myles has been honing his coaching skills alongside Billy Slater in the Queensland Origin camp. Now, he’s taking the next step in his rugby league journey, returning to Melbourne as part of their Jersey Flegg Cup coaching staff.

Nate Myles, a Rooster remembered

Roosters fans will remember Myles well. He burst onto the scene at Belmore in 2007, quickly becoming a fan favourite with his uncompromising style of play and relentless energy. After two years with the Bulldogs, he became a vital cog in the Roosters pack, giving his all in every contest. While a premiership eluded him during his time in Sydney, his contributions in the red, white, and blue are fondly remembered

Myles’ career spanned 13 seasons and five clubs, including the Bulldogs, Titans, and Sea Eagles. He captained the Gold Coast and achieved the ultimate success with a grand final victory in his final season at the Storm. His most enduring legacy, however, was forged in the cauldron of State of Origin.

Representing Queensland 32 times, Myles was the epitome of Maroon spirit. He was a warrior in the trenches, a leader who inspired his teammates with his actions. His battles with the likes of Paul Gallen are etched in Origin folklore, particularly that fiery clash in the 2013 Origin opener.

Read: Bondi Bus Bonanza? Western Sydney Demands Beach Access

A new chapter begins

Now, with a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the game, Myles is embarking on a new chapter. He’ll join forces with Mark Russell, who enters his third year at the helm of the Storm’s Jersey Flegg Cup side—a crucial stepping stone for young players aspiring to reach the NRL. It’s a chance for Myles to impart his knowledge to the next generation of players, to mould them into the tough, resilient competitors that defined his own career.

Published 10-January-2025

Bondi Beach Dining: The Shop and Wine Bar’s Local Charm

Photo Credit: The Shop & Wine Bar/Instagram

The Shop and Wine Bar, located on Curlewis Street, Bondi Beach continues to serve as a local favourite with its diverse menu, casual atmosphere, and new promotions like $9 happy hour drinks.

The popular eatery, known for its focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, has been a key part of the Bondi Beach dining scene since its establishment in 2006.

A Local Landmark in Bondi Beach

The Shop and Wine Bar was one of Sydney’s first small wine bars, opening in 2006. Operated by Mike and Lucy Haskas, alongside part-owner Adam Wallhausen, the venue has grown from a modest sandwich shop into a Bondi Beach landmark. Its reputation for high-quality food and drink has made it a cornerstone for both locals and visitors.

The Shop & Wine Bar owners. — *Photo Credit: The Shop & Wine Bar/Instagram*

The Shop and Wine Bar has maintained consistency even adding fresh and innovative dishes by keeping a menu that fits customer tastes. Its menu includes carefully chosen wine lists emphasising biodynamic and small-batch Australian wines in addition to signature sandwiches and substantial salads.

Daily Specials and Happy Hour Highlights

The Shop & Wine Bar happy hours — *Photo Credit: The Shop & Wine Bar/Instagram*

Adding to its charm, The Shop and Wine Bar offers enticing dining deals. One standout is the daily happy hour from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., where customers can enjoy $9 drinks, including selected wines and lagers.

For those visiting earlier in the day, breakfast options like smashed avocado toast and Japanese-inspired bowls are available until 11:45 a.m.

Lunch and dinner menus feature popular items like the BLT sandwich, miso carrot salad, and Italian-style meatballs, alongside burgers and share plates.

The emphasis on fresh and simple ingredients continues to attract patrons looking for quality meals in a relaxed environment.

view menu

Cherry tomatoes, oregano, lemon slow roasted, labne, sesame seeds, pepitas — *Photo Credit: The Shop & Wine Bar/Instagram*

New Brekkie Plate dish — *Photo Credit: The Shop & Wine Bar/Instagram*

Rave Reviews from Locals and Visitors

The Shop and Wine Bar is beloved by locals and visitors alike for its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service. Sarah Liz King, a frequent visitor, describes it as “one of my favourite cafes in Bondi Beach.” She praises its versatility, noting that it’s an excellent spot for everything from a quick coffee to a leisurely brunch or an afternoon wine. Ms King also highlighted the café’s gluten-free options and its curated selection of wines and cocktails.

Matthew Long, another regular, echoed this sentiment, calling it his “favourite and most consistent place in the area.” He particularly praised the chicken sandwich, labelling it “the GOAT.” Long also described the venue’s atmosphere as “super chill” and ideal for drinks and snacks in the afternoon. “We look forward to coming here every time we visit Sydney,” he added.

*Photo Credit: The Shop & Wine Bar/Instagram*

A Promising Future for Bondi Dining

One of the most identifiable dining venues in Bondi Beach, The Shop and Wine Bar keeps innovating while always anchored in its community-first approach. Open seven days a week, the venue provides Tuesday through Saturday extended hours from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., so giving diners flexibility all day.

book reservation

For more information or reservations, visit their website or call (02) 9365 2600.

Published 11-Jan-2025

Bondi Bus Bonanza? Sydney Demands Beach Access

Bondi Beach, with its golden sands and iconic surf, has become the focal point of a heated debate over accessibility for residents of Western Sydney.

With public pools in Western Sydney overflowing and the high cost of driving to the coast, mayors from several Western Sydney councils ask the NSW government for help. They suggest establishing direct bus routes to popular beaches like Bondi, Manly, and Cronulla. A trip from Parramatta to Bondi can take over an hour by public transport, involving multiple train and bus changes.

Mayors argue that the lack of convenient transport options makes it difficult for many Western Sydney residents, especially those with families, to enjoy the beaches.

Some Western Sydney councils have invested in local water-based recreation facilities, such as Penrith’s “Pondi” beach and the upgraded swimming facilities at Lake Parramatta. However, mayors maintain that these initiatives shouldn’t prevent residents from also having the option to visit Sydney’s iconic eastern beaches.

Hills Shire Mayor Michelle Byrne believes bus services to the beaches, especially during school holidays, would make it easier for Western Sydney residents to enjoy Sydney’s coastline.

In the meantime, Fairfield Council is taking the initiative to organise buses to transport residents to Bondi Beach every Sunday throughout January and February.

While acknowledging the efforts of local councils, Business Western Sydney Executive Director David Borger emphasised the need for long-term solutions. He admitted the mayors’ frustration and understood their ambition.

Borger believes Western Sydney needs to develop its waterways further in the long term, as the river is a valuable asset. But until then, he supports efforts to improve access to the beaches.

Published Date 27-December-2024

Sand and Water Runoff Causes Ongoing Issues for Bondi Beach Residents

Photo Credit: Pexels

Residents living near Bondi Beach are facing ongoing problems with flooding and sand build-up caused by runoff from a nearby golf course during heavy rains.

Bondi Beach flooding issue — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

The issue has resulted in property damage, rising insurance premiums, and frustration among homeowners.

Background of the Issue

The problem stems from a nine-hole golf course located on land overlooking Bondi Beach. Over the past few years, erosion and poor drainage have created channels directing water and sand runoff into residential properties. Residents report that heavy rain events turn their yards into muddy swamps, with sand piling up to knee height in some areas.

Challenges and Interim Solutions

Homeowners have raised their concerns multiple times, but both the golf course management and local authorities have been slow to implement a lasting solution.The Waverley local authorities, who manage the golf course, recently approved an $80,000 budget to construct a swale—a shallow drainage channel—to divert water and sand away from residential properties. Project completion is expected to be in early 2025.

In the meantime, temporary sandbags have been installed along vulnerable areas to reduce the immediate impact of future rainfall.

Sand and water runoff damaging residential yards — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Community Frustration Grows

Residents like Jeff and Jeanette, who have lived near the golf course for decades, report significant disruption to their daily lives. Jeff described the flooding as a “waterfall of sand,” while Jeanette noted the ongoing hygiene issues caused by mud and debris. Rising insurance premiums have added financial strain, with some residents seeing their bills more than double in recent years.

Despite temporary measures, residents believe the response has been slow and insufficient. Some have even taken matters into their own hands, installing private drainage systems at their own expense.

Next Steps and Outlook

With the swale construction planned for early 2025, residents remain cautiously optimistic. In the interim, they are calling for additional short-term measures, such as improved sandbagging and more frequent maintenance.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges of managing water runoff in urban coastal areas like Bondi Beach, where natural and built environments intersect. For now, residents are left hoping that upcoming mitigation efforts will finally bring an end to years of disruption and uncertainty.

Published 29-Dec-2024

‘Squid Game’ Took Over Bondi Icebergs in a Thrilling Netflix Pop-Up Event

Photo Credit: Netflixanz

Bondi Icebergs, one of Sydney’s most iconic locations, was recently transformed into a dramatic stage for Squid Game, as Netflix brought the chilling games of its global hit series to life in an unforgettable promotional event ahead of the show’s highly anticipated second season.

On Thursday, 19 December 2024, Sydney’s iconic Bondi Icebergs pool was transformed into a real-life set from Netflix’s global hit Squid Game. The event featured a life-sized game of ‘Red Light, Green Light’, complete with a towering replica of Young-hee, the sinister doll from the series.

Fifty guards in the show’s signature red jumpsuits flanked the pool, creating an eerie yet thrilling atmosphere. Olympic gold medallist Steven Bradbury emerged as the winner in the high-stakes challenge, once again proving that persistence pays off.

A Global Phenomenon Came to Bondi

The spectacular activation was part of Netflix’s global promotional campaign for Squid Game Season 2, which premiered on 26 December 2024.

Similar events were held in cities like Paris, Seoul, and London, turning iconic landmarks into real-life stages for the show’s gripping challenges. The Bondi Icebergs event marked Australia’s contribution to the campaign, drawing fans, locals, and tourists to witness the action.

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A post shared by Travel | Photography | Wanderlust Prints (@just.us.wanderlust)

In Australia, the promotional journey began in St Kilda, Melbourne, where pink guards were spotted lounging on the beach, sparking intrigue among passers-by.

The campaign then moved to Sydney Harbour, where a convoy of guards escorted Young-hee by ferry to Luna Park Sydney for another immersive experience. Bondi Icebergs served as the final stage, blending Sydney’s iconic beach culture with the dark dystopian themes of the show.

The event at Bondi Icebergs captivated onlookers with its surreal juxtaposition of Bondi’s serene oceanfront pool and the haunting aesthetics of Squid Game. Ten participants took part in a live reenactment of ‘Red Light, Green Light’, competing under the watchful eyes of Young-hee and her guards.

Steven Bradbury’s win delighted attendees, bringing a sense of joy and nostalgia as the celebrated athlete demonstrated his knack for triumphing under pressure.

The pool’s dramatic backdrop added to the allure, further cementing Bondi Icebergs as a premier location for high-profile events. Local influencers and celebrities attended, sharing their exclusive experiences on social media and amplifying the event’s reach.

Cultural Impact of Squid Game

Since its release, Squid Game has become a global cultural phenomenon, inspiring real-world adaptations, themed events, and even a reality competition, Squid Game: The Challenge (minus the deadly consequences). These events engaged fans and brought the fictional world of Squid Game to life in interactive and thrilling ways.

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A post shared by Netflix Australia & NZ (@netflixanz)

The second season, which premiered just days after the Bondi Icebergs event, promised to delve deeper into the series’ dark narrative while introducing fresh challenges and complex characters. Netflix has also announced a third and final season, fuelling speculation about how the series will conclude.

For those who missed the Bondi Icebergs event, Netflix extended its Squid Game promotional activities to “Squid Game: The Experience” at Luna Park Sydney. This interactive adventure allowed participants to engage in the show’s challenges in a controlled and entertaining environment. Tickets were available on Luna Park’s official website.

Netflix’s approach to promoting Squid Game Season 2 exemplified the power of immersive marketing. By hosting pop-up events in culturally significant locations like Bondi Icebergs, the streaming giant captured the attention of fans and curious onlookers alike. These activations blurred the lines between fiction and reality, offering fans unique opportunities to engage with the show beyond the screen.

Bondi’s Role in Pop Culture

The choice of Bondi Icebergs as a venue reinforced its status as a cultural icon in Sydney. Frequently hosting high-profile events, the pool has become a focal point for artistic and promotional activities. The Squid Game pop-up was yet another example of Bondi Icebergs’ ability to merge its local charm with global cultural trends.

As Squid Game continued to leave its mark on global entertainment, events like the Bondi Icebergs takeover highlighted the series’ ability to inspire creative and immersive experiences. From the beaches of St Kilda to Sydney Harbour and Bondi Icebergs, Australia’s contribution to Netflix’s promotional campaign was nothing short of spectacular.

Fans eagerly awaited the continuation of the Squid Game saga, knowing that the show’s blend of suspense, strategy, and humanity would continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

Published 20-Dec-2024

Academy-Qualifying Film Festival Returns to Bondi Beach with 200 Global Shorts

Photo Credit: Flickerfest/Facebook

Australia’s premier short film festival will, once again, showcase more than 200 films from around the world at Bondi Beach, featuring works from emerging filmmakers alongside internationally recognised talent in its 34th edition.

Festival Overview

Flickerfest will run from 17-26 January, 2025, at the Bondi Pavilion, screening films under the stars. The festival, which qualifies winners for Academy Award and BAFTA consideration, selected these films from more than 3,400 entries worldwide. The event spans 10 days with 24 dedicated programmes covering diverse genres and themes.

The programme features 63 Australian films competing for national honours, while 36 international films and 15 documentaries vie for their respective categories. Among the 130 films in competition, audiences will see 37 world premieres and 46 Australian premieres, with an additional five NSW premieres rounding out the programme.

Notable Premieres

Emmy Award-nominated actress Yvonne Strahovski will present her directorial debut “Vlog,” exploring modern motherhood and social media pressure. The film, shot with her own family, offers insights into the challenges of balancing career and family life. The Sydney-raised actress, who graduated from Nepean University before finding success in the US, brings her personal experience to the project.

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A post shared by Yvonne Strahovski (@yvonnestrahovski)

Filmmaker Nash Edgerton returns with “Candy Bar,” starring Damon Herriman in a dark comedy. Edgerton, known for “The Square” and “Mr Inbetween,” brings his experience as a writer, director, producer, and stuntman to this latest short film.

The international programme includes “Hearts of Stone” from Belgium, featuring “Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” star Noomi Rapace. The animated work “The Brown Dog,” featuring voices of the late Michael K. Williams and Steve Buscemi, brings together Pulitzer Prize-nominated composer Tyshawn Sorey with Buscemi also serving as Executive Producer.

“Rash,” directed by Sydney-based filmmaker Claudia Osborne, examines grief through the story of two young brothers coping with their mother’s death. The NIDA graduate’s debut brings her theatre experience to the screen.

Kate Walsh stars in “The Dog,” a surreal exploration of mortality directed by Danielle Baynes. The film follows a struggling vet’s encounter with a mysterious sick dog, leading to unexpected revelations.

Beyond the main competition, the festival includes dedicated sessions for young filmmakers through FlickerUp, LGBTQI-themed films in Rainbow Shorts, and family-friendly screenings in FlickerKids. The programme also features relationship-focused films in Love Bites and comedy shorts in Short Laughs.

National Reach

Following its Bondi Beach run, the festival will tour more than 40 venues across Australia until October 2025, bringing short films to audiences nationwide. Festival director Bronwyn Kidd said the selection represents contemporary storytelling from both Australian and international filmmakers, highlighting fresh perspectives in cinema.

Tickets for Flickerfest 2025 are now available through flickerfest.com.au. The festival website provides full programme details and screening schedules for the January 17-26 event at Bondi Pavilion.

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Bondi Beach Tourists Shocked by ‘Gross’ Aussie Habit

Photo: Pexels

Tourists at Bondi Beach are shocked by a common Aussie habit of rinsing sandy feet in public drinking fountains, sparking debates about hygiene and cultural norms.

Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most iconic destinations, has become the centre of a surprising cultural clash as tourists react with shock and disgust to a common local habit. The practice of washing sandy feet in public water fountains, which is considered routine for many Australians, has left some international visitors horrified, sparking online debates about cultural norms and etiquette.

Tourists arriving at Bondi Beach, known for its golden sands and laid-back atmosphere, often leave perplexed by the scene of locals washing off their feet in drinking fountains. To Australians, it is a practical and innocuous custom—a quick way to freshen up after a day spent by the sea. For visitors accustomed to stricter public hygiene standards, however, this behavior may appear unsanitary and improper.

Bondi Beach Tourists Shocked by ‘Gross’ Aussie Habit — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

The controversy shot online fast with many claiming their surprise and frustration as they visited Bondi in the habit. Photos and videos of the practice people rinsing sand from feet in fountains spread wildly across the social media sites and, with mixed reactions both at home and aboard.

Critics argue that public drinking fountains should remain exclusively for hydration purposes, expressing concerns about hygiene and the potential spread of germs. They view the practice as disrespectful and unsanitary, particularly in an area frequented by large numbers of people. For some, the thought of consuming water from a fountain that has been used to clean feet is enough to elicit a strong reaction.

On the other hand, locals and long-time sunbathers support this behavior because it is a simple solution for the inevitable sand that one gets with the enjoyment of Australia’s beaches.

Sand at Bondi Beach – like at many other shore towns – is not so readily available with special outdoor foot-washing stations. Some believe that this behavior forms a reasonable response to how things are in life-by-the-sea, that criticism is overblown.

The cultural gap unravels divergent attitudes that the natives and travelers have about public spaces as well as what they were meant for. For some, coming from countries which are strict with hygiene activities, it is very odd to see someone wash feet in a drinking fountain.

For the Australians, however, living by the beach has had them used to the coastal life where this is normal and reflects the freedom to live like the beachgoers.

Local authorities have yet to address the controversy directly, but the debate raises questions about whether more amenities should be introduced at popular tourist spots like Bondi Beach. Dedicated foot-washing stations could provide a compromise, offering a hygienic and convenient solution for beachgoers while maintaining the cleanliness of public drinking fountains.

The incident is not the first time Bondi Beach has been at the centre of cultural differences. The beach, which attracts millions of visitors each year, often serves as a microcosm of Australia’s diverse and sometimes conflicting values. From debates about topless sunbathing to disputes over littering, Bondi continues to reflect the dynamic interactions between locals and tourists.

As the conversation unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the challenges that arise when different cultural norms intersect in shared spaces. While some see the habit as a practical necessity, others view it as a breach of public etiquette. For now, the sandy-foot controversy remains a topic of lively debate, reflecting the unique and sometimes surprising aspects of Australian beach culture.

Despite the controversy, Bondi Beach remains a must-visit destination for travellers from around the world. Its stunning scenery, vibrant community, and unmistakable charm continue to captivate visitors, even as they navigate the quirks of local customs.

For many, these cultural differences add to the experience, offering a deeper insight into the relaxed and distinctive way of life that defines Australia’s beachside culture.

Published 19-Dec-2024

Shark Nets Out, Drones In: Bondi Beach Overhauls Shark Safety

Photo Credit: Sharkwater

Bondi and Bronte beaches will finally be free of shark nets, a move that reflects growing concerns about the nets’ effectiveness and their harm to marine life, potentially changing how Sydney manages its famous coastline.

Nets Deemed ‘Pointless’ by Critics

*Photo Credit: Jason Iggleton/Drone Shark App*

Critics have long argued that the nets, positioned approximately 300 metres offshore, are outdated and give swimmers a false sense of security.

Standing only six metres high in water, often 10 metres deep, they do little to prevent sharks from swimming over them. Furthermore, they frequently entangle non-target species, including dolphins and critically endangered grey nurse sharks, raising serious concerns about their environmental impact.

Council Favours Modern Shark Mitigation Technology

Instead of relying on nets, Waverley Council plans to focus on newer technologies to ensure swimmer safety. These include drones, SMART drumlines (which allow for the tagging and release of sharks), and tagged listening stations. This decision follows an analysis by Humane Society International (HSI) showing that Bondi Beach has experienced three summers without shark nets catching a single target shark.

Government Consultation Drives Change

The council’s vote directly responds to the NSW Government’s commitment to consult with local communities about shark mitigation strategies. The government has indicated its willingness to consider alternatives to shark nets, and Waverley Council’s submission will be a key part of this process. This shift in approach follows other recent changes, such as the earlier removal of nets to protect endangered sea turtles during their nesting season.

Community Education Key to Success

While acknowledging that shark nets provide a sense of comfort to some, experts stress the importance of educating the public about their limitations. The council and the NSW government aim to inform the community about more effective and environmentally friendly ways to mitigate shark risks.

Shark Expert Highlights Environmental Impact

Dr Leonardo Guida, a shark expert from the Australian Marine Conservation Society, expressed concerns about shark nets’ impact on endangered marine life, particularly grey nurse sharks and sea turtles. He praised Waverley Council for its decision and urged others to follow suit.

DPI Responds to Council Vote

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has stated that while beachgoer safety remains its priority, it is committed to protecting marine life. The DPI highlighted the effectiveness of SMART drumlines in minimising the capture of non-target species and maximising the survival of all animals. It also acknowledged the importance of community feedback in shaping the future of shark mitigation programs.

Other councils across NSW are expected to vote on the use of shark nets in their areas in the coming weeks. The outcome of these votes and Waverley Council’s submission will likely play a significant role in determining the future of shark mitigation strategies in the state.

Published Date 18-December-2024