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Easy Tiger Brings Southeast Asian Fare to Bondi Beach

Easy Tiger, Bondi Beach’s newest Southeast Asian restaurant, transports diners to the exotic shores of the region with its aromatic curries, fresh herbs, and tantalising wok-tossed dishes.

Read: Bondi’s Preach Cafe Voted Best Cafe In Sydney’s East

This new restaurant, which opened this September on the corner of Campbell Parade and Beach Road delivers a menu inspired by the diverse flavours of Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand.

The 70-seat restaurant comes from acclaimed Sydney restaurant group House Made Hospitality, who wanted to bring something fresh and beachy to match the Bondi vibe. It’s designed as a relaxed, casual space with neutral interiors where the bright, vibrant flavours take centre stage.

Head Chef Andrianto Wirya (Photo credit: Easy Tiger Bondi Beach/Facebook)

In the kitchen, Chef Andrianto Wirya draws on his Indonesian heritage and experience working in hotels across Asia to lead diners on a culinary tour from street food to fine dining.

Some standout dishes include the Duck Roll, a crispy Vietnamese duck spring roll served with nuoc cham dipping sauce. The Tamarind Chicken Wings are fried until crispy then glazed with a sweet and sticky tamarind chilli glaze. For vegetarians, the Wood Roasted Cauliflower is doused in a green curry coconut sauce and served with brinjal pickle and curry leaf.

In addition to sharing plates, Easy Tiger offers fresh wok-tossed greens, crispy twice-fried corn “larb”, and the quintessential Papaya Salad with green papaya, peanuts, chilli and aromatic Thai basil.

Crispy corn larb (Photo credit: Easy Tiger Bondi Beach/Facebook)

The restaurant also caters to kids with chicken bao buns, BBQ fish and crispy pork belly on the children’s menu. For something sweet, families can choose from refreshing watermelon, a vanilla and coconut sundae or a slice of banana toffee pie.

The restaurant offers an Asian-inspired banquet menu so diners can sample a variety of dishes. To complement the food, Easy Tiger serves beers from the on-site Bondi Brewing Co, Australian wines and creative cocktails.

Southeast Asian — Photo credit: Easy Tiger Bondi Beach/Facebook

Read: Bondi Beach Visitors Urged to Respect Local Council Rule Amid Lawn Restoration Efforts

Open for lunch and dinner Wednesday to Sunday, Easy Tiger promises to bring diners the tastes, aromas and essence of Southeast Asia right in the heart of Bondi. Follow them on Facebook for more details.

Published 13-October-2023

Ben & Jerry’s Teams Up with JCDecaux for Ice Cream-Themed Bus Stop in Bondi

To mark the launch of their new Sundaes range, iconic ice cream brand Ben & Jerry’s has joined forces with media company JCDecaux to create a delectable ice cream-themed bus stop in Bondi Beach.

This unique activation promises presents a tempting sight to Bondi commutersin search of a salted caramel fix as they wait for their buses.

Situated directly across from the Ben & Jerry’s store on Campbell Parade right across the popular Bondi Beach, the specially designed 3D bus shelter has undergone a whimsical transformation, taking on the appearance of a colossal Ben & Jerry’s Sundae.

This eye-catching installation is aimed at promoting their new range, described as featuring “the chunkiest, swirliest flavours, layered with never-before-seen creamy whipped topping and finished with sticky sauce and chocolate chunks.”

The attention to detail is remarkable, with custom green seating and a Sundae-topping roof adding to the immersive experience. As a delightful bonus, the bus stop features a push-button salted caramel scent dispenser, further tempting passersby with the allure of this delectable treat.

Strategic Location

The strategic placement of this ice cream-themed bus stop is no accident. Bondi Beach attracts nearly half a million domestic visitors annually, and this particular bus station lies along the busy 333 bus route from North Bondi to City Circular Quay.

“The activation looks delicious and is strategically located opposite the Ben & Jerry’s Bondi Beach store to drive footfall,” Lama Perrin, Group Manager of Creative and Digital Solutions at JCDecaux, said.

Bondi ice cream themed bus stop — Photo Credit: Ben & Jerry’s/Little Black Book Online

“A popular outdoor destination like Bondi is the ideal environment for ice cream advertising, with the beach, sun, and holiday atmosphere.

“For many customers, ice cream is an impulse buy, with the scent dispenser triggering appetite and positive memories.”

National Campaign

Sean Farrell, Country Manager for Ben & Jerry’s Australia & New Zealand, expressed the brand’s enthusiasm for introducing the Ben & Jerry’s Sundaes range to Australia through this fun and multi-sensory activation.

“At Ben & Jerry’s, we always strive to find new and authentic ways to surprise and delight our fans, from our euphoric ice cream to how we connect with them in their daily lives.”

This whimsical campaign isn’t limited to the streets of Bondi alone. It is supported by a national advertising campaign spanning JCDecaux Classic and Digital Large Format media outlets. The primary goal is to raise awareness of the new Ben & Jerry’s Sundaes and, equally important, to encourage people to visit Ben & Jerry’s store locations and supermarkets where the brand is available.

Bondi residents and visitors alike can enjoy the delightful Ben & Jerry’s Sundae bus stop until 22 Oct 2023.

Published 9-Oct-2023

Shorter Parking Limits Proposed to Alleviate Bondi Beach Woes

To tackle the perennial issues of traffic congestion and parking shortages near the iconic Bondi Beach, shorter parking limits are being proposed for visitors. While aiming to alleviate the plight of local residents, the move could pose fresh challenges for those seeking a day at the beach.

Waverley Council intends to expand the existing Resident Parking Scheme in the vicinity of Bondi Beach and enforce a two-hour parking restriction for non-residents. Per Mayor Paula Masselos, the proposal aims to “strike a balance between the parking demands of residents and visitors” to Bondi Beach.

Parking issues in this area have long been a contentious topic. Over the past year, Waverley Councillor Leon Goltsman, representing the Bondi ward, has fielded complaints from hundreds of locals regarding on-street parking problems.

Regarding potential solutions, Cr Goltsman acknowledged the diverse range of opinions but stressed the consistent desire of residents to have their voices heard. He also highlighted the challenge posed by Waverley’s status as one of Australia’s most densely populated local government areas, experiencing demand for parking that often surpasses supply, particularly during peak times.

Whilst Waverley Council has a vision of reducing car travel reliance through initiatives like the Bondi Junction Cycleway, which opened in February 2023, Cr. Goltsman expressed reservations. He noted a reduction in public street parking in recent years, with spaces being repurposed for car-sharing zones, parklets, and expanded sidewalks. Although these changes have some advantages, they contribute to the difficulty of finding parking.

Cr Goltsman also acknowledged concerns that altered parking rules might deter lower-income residents from visiting the glamorous Bondi area. He emphasized the importance of maintaining Bondi’s welcoming reputation and considered the visitor experience holistically. He expressed concern that shorter time limits, coupled with the high cost of parking near Bondi Beach, could overshadow an otherwise joyful day at the beach.

Parking around Bondi Beach is notoriously pricey, with some sections charging as much as $10 per hour – exceeding the costs in Sydney’s CBD. Additionally, the privatization of bus services in the Eastern Suburbs has limited public transport accessibility in the region.

Council, along with the NSW Police and Transport for NSW, is currently reviewing the feedback received during the public consultation for its Resident Parking Scheme (RPS), which closed in September 2023.

Published 6-Oct-2023

Sixers Star Maitlan Brown Joins Bondi Beach Cricket Blast

Bondi Beach played host to a day of beach cricket on September 25, led by Sydney Sixers star Maitlan Brown. The free Woolworths Cricket Blast program transformed iconic Bondi Beach into a cricket arena for local children to enjoy some holiday activities.

Bondi Beach cricket excitement

Cricket NSW partnered with Waverley Council to organise the beach cricket event, transforming Bondi Beach into a cricket hub. 64 children took part in modified cricket activities including batting, bowling and fielding on the sand. All the equipment was provided by Cricket NSW.

Parents watched from beach chairs and under umbrellas as their children played barefoot cricket on the makeshift Flicx pitch set up on the beach. Many families travelled from surrounding suburbs such as Berowra to take part.

Sydney Sixers all-rounder Maitlan Brown made a special appearance at the Bondi Beach Cricket Blast. She led barefoot cricket activities and gave tips to the young participants.

Brown was enthusiastic about the beach cricket concept, saying it encouraged children to stay active outdoors. She coached the children and handed out Sydney Sixers prizes and giveaways.

Maitlan Brown extends contract with Sydney Sixers

In related news, Maitlan Brown has signed a two-year extension to her WBBL contract with the Sydney Sixers. Head of Sydney Sixers, Rachael Haynes said it was a priority for the club to secure the all-rounder for the long term.

The WBBL season begins on October 19 when the Sixers take on the Melbourne Stars at North Sydney Oval.

Published 1 October 2023

Bondi Surf Club Mourns Sudden Death of Lifesaver and Community Pillar Louise Santos

The tight-knit community of Bondi Surf Club is mourning the sudden loss of 54-year-old Louise Santos, a dedicated surf lifesaver, athlete and mother, who passed away unexpectedly while on a family holiday in France in September 2023.

Louise Santos leaves grieving family

Louise Santos and her family — Louise is survived by her husband, Stuart, and their son, Josh. It has not been made public how she passed away. Photo Credit: Facebook/Bondi Surf Club

Louise, who celebrated her birthday ten days before her passing, was travelling with her husband and their young son. She leaves behind her heartbroken family members as they grapple with this “unfathomable loss,” in the words of Bondi Surf Club president Brent Jackson.

“The entire club stands in profound shock, grappling with the void left by Louise’s passing,” he wrote in a Facebook post.

Athlete, mentor, and community pillar

Louise Santos — Photo Credit: Facebook/Bondi Surf Club

An outstanding athlete who won more than 40 medals in Australian and world lifesaving competitions, Louise was a pioneer for women in the sport. She was also passionate about training younger club members in lifesaving skills and sports techniques.

She was Bondi’s first female individual Australian Titles gold medallist in the 35-39 years Ironwoman 2005, going on to snag four consecutive Australian titles in various open team events.

She also completed the extremely challenging Coolangatta Gold Long Course several times. Women were previously not allowed to participate in this endurance event. Even at the age of 49, in 2018, she completed the course and placed second in the 35-49 age group.

Louise was an integral part of Bondi Surf Club for over 20 years. She took on roles ranging from coach to competition director and volunteered countless hours. She recently became the club’s first female life member, a testament to her unwavering commitment.

Following the news of Louise’s untimely passing, tributes poured in from social media and the Bondi community. Friends and fellow surfers have described Santos as warm, straightforward, and inspirational. On Wednesday, surfers gathered for a minute’s silence in her honour. On Friday, the Bondi Surf Club flag was lowered to half-mast.

Published 1 October 2023

Bondi Beach Visitors Urged to Respect Local Council Rule Amid Lawn Restoration Efforts

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A concerned resident of Bondi Beach has taken to social media to call on its visitors to respect their neighbourhood, following several beachgoers being caught disregarding a council rule aimed at preserving the beachfront lawn.

Choosing to remain anonymous, the resident snapped photographs of several individuals lounging on the grass at Bondi Beach, The behaviour was observed despite a prominent sign from Waverley Council that indicated that the area was closed off due to a much-needed turf upgrade.

She shared the photos to the Bondi Loop Facebook group where she asked fellow beachgoers to not sit on the grass. She added that if people kept sitting and leaving their dogs in north Bondi, there would be no grass for summer. “Please respect our neighbourhood,” she pleaded.

The site is currently undergoing turf upgrade which involves the removal of the existing lawn and the installation of fresh grass, thereby stabilising the soil. The project, whilst it is meant to maintain the beauty of Bondi Beach, needs the cooperation of the community.

Following the social media post, many locals rallied behind the woman’s call for respect echoing her concern about the potential consequences of the disregard for the rules. They also stressed the need to ensure that Bondi Beach’s lawn retains its pristine look, especially during the upcoming summer season.

One resident expressed frustration over people choosing to sit in the part that was closed off instead of other parts of the beach where there is also plenty of grass.

Another one explained that foot traffic and animal urine can contribute negatively to the Council’s rejuvenation efforts in the area.

It is imperative, therefore, that everyone respect local regulations to help preserve the natural beauty of these public spaces. With the summer approaching, the collective effort of locals and visitors will play a crucial role in the successful completion of the turf restoration project, ensuring that Bondi Beach remains a pristine destination for everyone to enjoy.

Published 22-September-2023

Crackdown on Off-Leash Dogs at Bondi Beach in Response to Rising Complaints

Photo Credit: Chewy/Unsplash

The serene, golden sands of Bondi Beach have long been a treasured destination for sun-seeking visitors and locals alike. However, a recent surge in complaints from residents has led to a concerted effort to curb the presence of off-leash dogs on this iconic Australian beach.

In response to numerous grievances, a comprehensive plan has been put in place by Waverley Council. The plan is meant to ensure that the owners of canine companions adhere to the strict prohibition against setting paw on Bondi Beach’s sandy shores.

Under this new initiative, council rangers will patrol Bondi Beach between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. to enforce the existing ban on off-leash dogs accessing the beach area. The complaints that spurred this action highlighted concerns regarding safety, environmental impacts, and the general inconvenience caused by off-leash dogs during the early morning hours.

Dogs are generally prohibited from accessing beaches and parks unless specified otherwise, as mandated by the Companion Animals Act of 1998. Violating this regulation can result in a substantial penalty exceeding $330. Council rangers possess the authority to issue infringement notices and, in extreme cases, seize dogs or cats from their owners.

Balancing Compliance with Dog Owners’ Needs

While this crackdown has garnered support, some residents argue that overcrowding at eastern suburbs dog parks has led to an increase in conflicts among dogs. Some locals hope that Waverley Council will provide more dedicated space for pet owners.

Cr Leon Goltsman, who proposed the motion for this new initiative, clarified that it is not about penalising residents but rather about educating them on existing legislation. In the past year, Bondi Beach has seen 137 infringements issued for off-leash dogs violations, prompting the need for increased vigilance.

However, not everyone agrees with the crackdown. Cr Tim Murray believes that the motion essentially supports the current enforcement efforts and that policy decisions should not be influenced by a minority who flout the rules. He suggests that a few individuals are responsible for most of these breaches.

Cr Michelle Gray points out that Waverley Council already takes compliance seriously but acknowledges the need to address the desires and requirements of dog owners. She emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between enforcing regulations and providing sufficient support to dog owners.

Published 18-Sept-2023

Emmanuel Asante: Painting a Migrant’s Artistic Journey

Photo Credit: Facebook / Emmanuel Asante Art

Meet Emmanuel Asante, a young migrant artist from Ghana who recently showcased his work in Bondi Beach. His story is a testament to the transformative power of art in the community.

How art is appreciated and valued is one of the things that he loves about Australia, Asante admits, which is something that doesn’t get the same level of appreciation and recognition back home.

Asante arrived in Australia in April 2015 and subsequently graduated from Eagle Vale High School in 2018. Although he had artistic inclinations from a young age, the road to becoming a professional artist seemed distant. It was not until he joined the Refugee Art Project, a nonprofit organisation established to foster creativity and provide a platform for self-expression for asylum seekers and refugees, that this journey to an artistic path began.

However, he said becoming an artist was a huge decision for him, as he was going against the wishes of people who matter to him. And despite being largely self-taught, Asante’s journey into the world of painting and drawing was spurred by personal experiences and a battle with depression.

Emmanuel Asante: Painting a Migrant’s Artistic Journey — *Photo Credit: Facebook /* Emmanuel Asante Art

After completing high school, Asante took his portfolio of drawings to the National Art School hoping to secure a spot in their program. He was extended an offer with the possibility of some financial assistance, but because he wasn’t a citizen yet, he had to pay $12,000 upfront fee in two to three months. A financial challenge that caused him to defer the offer and eventually resulted in him losing financial support from his parents.

He then worked in a warehouse for about eight months whilst also doing some work as a professional artist and public speaker. When his agency’s contract wasn’t renewed and the COVID-19 hit, wiping out his public speaking engagements and art opportunities, he admits that it caused him severe anxiety and depression.

Through the help of counsellors from Headspace and assistance that he got from Settlement Services International, who provided him with art materials and supplies, Asante slowly got back on his feet.

One significant aspect of his artistic journey is his role in teaching art to children at the Opera House, where he imparted his skills to the younger generation. He also contributed his talent to various community initiatives, including ‘The Island’ at Addison Rd Community Centre, collaborations with Headspace at HJ Daley Library Campbelltown, and the Resilience Portrait Project in partnership with Campbelltown City Council.

As a Ghanaian migrant in Australia, his personal experiences serve a deep well of inspiration for his art, channelling his emotions and cultural heritage into his creations.

Published 6-September-2023

Tamarama SLSC and Boot Factory Renovations On Track for Early 2024

The Tamarama Surf Life Saving Club and the heritage Boot Factory building in Bondi Junction are undergoing major upgrades and restorations. The projects are progressing well and expected to finish in early 2024.

Read: Bondi’s Historic Boot Factory Gets New Lease on Life

Tamarama SLSC upgrade

The upcoming upgrade of the Tamarama Surf Life Saving Club will modernise the facility to better serve lifesavers, educators, and the local community. The renovation is a partnership between Waverley Council and the Club.

The improved Club will have new amenities tailored for contemporary lifesaving activities and patrols. There will be enhanced spaces for female club members along with facilities for increased community and public use. The design also addresses noise bleed to nearby residential properties.

It’s partially funded through the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, which helps local Councils like Waverley deliver priority infrastructure projects, creating jobs and boosting local economies to aid pandemic recovery.

Boot Factory building restoration

Artist’s impression of the Boot Factory restoration (Photo credit: www.waverley.nsw.gov.au)

Waverley Council has undertaken restoration and upgrades to the historic Boot Factory and Mill Hill Community Centre in Bondi Junction. The former shoemaking factory was originally built in 1892 by William Sidaway and Son.

Waverley Council last restored the historic building in 1986. Located behind Norman Lee Place at 27-33 Spring Street, the facility is now being transformed into a vibrant community hub.

A key feature of the renovated centre will be an Innovation and Knowledge Hub. This space will allow Waverley Council to foster innovative ideas and collaborate with the community to shape the future of the area as a modern, technology-enabled “smart city.”

Upgrades to the seniors and community centre will provide flexible spaces for public use. Normal Lee Place will also see improvements, and a new café is being added.

Most notably, the building will house Waverley Council’s inaugural Thinker In Residence program. This initiative will bring in experts to engage with the community on finding innovative solutions to pressing environmental sustainability challenges facing the area.

Read: Prestigious Flickerfest Returns to the Refurbished Bondi Pavilion

Alan Al Refaei, Director of Schiavello Constructions, expressed excitement about collaborating with Waverley Council on the restoration projects.

“Our focus has been to protect and restore the rich heritage elements of these buildings while undertaking major external, civil, structural and interior fitout works to create a thriving community hub,” Mr Al Refaei said.

Visit Waverley Council’s website for updates on major projects.

Published 1-September-2023

Waverley Council Urges Better Options for Shark Deterrence in Bondi Beach Amid Environmental Concerns

Sydney’s iconic beaches in Bondi and Bronte could experience a landmark change this summer as discussions swirl around the possible removal of shark nets from its waters, especially after Waverley’s leaders have called for better deterrents.

The New South Wales government is grappling with whether to continue the controversial shark meshing program, which has been in place since 1937 and has faced increasing opposition due to its impact on marine life.

The shark nets are traditionally deployed at 51 beaches spanning from Newcastle to Wollongong each year, typically from September to April.

However, as the deadline for their installation approaches in less than five weeks, the NSW has announced that a final decision will not be made until it gathers input from eight coastal councils.

One of the most vocal proponents for alternative methods is Waverley Council, responsible for some of Sydney’s most renowned beaches. It has previously opposed the use of shark nets and has been eager to collaborate with the state government to develop improved solutions.

Paula Masselos, the mayor of Waverley, emphasized the need for more progressive approaches to shark deterrence, stating that there should be a better system for the 21st century.

The use of shark nets has long been a point of contention within the community, often drawing criticism from environmental groups due to the unintended trapping of dolphins and turtles, leading to their unfortunate deaths. Mayor Masselos pointed out that the nets are only deployed for half of the year and are not extensive enough to cover entire beaches, allowing sharks to become trapped close to shore.

However, not everyone is convinced that a swift removal of the nets is the best course of action.

Sally Betts, Waverley’s longest-serving councillor and former mayor, believes that alternative methods should be more thoroughly developed before discarding the nets. Betts recalled a shark attack incident in 2009 that resulted in a surfer losing his arm, highlighting the importance of maintaining effective shark deterrence.

Latest data on the number of marine animals inadvertently caught and killed in shark nets showed that 90 per cent have been “non-target species,” such as turtles or stingrays.

Photo Credit: Shark Meshing Bather Protection Program Report

Out of the 228 creatures trapped in the waters of NSW beaches during the 2022-23 season, only 24 were the intended species of sharks (18 white sharks and six tiger sharks), while the remaining 204 were unintended species. A majority of these caught animals (63 per cent) met their demise due to ensnarement.

Among the 204 unintended species, there were 120 smaller sharks, 58 rays, 14 turtles, 10 mammals (consisting of eight dolphins and two seals), and two finfish.

The list of animals encompasses 16 critically endangered grey nurse sharks, two of which suffered fatal consequences. Additionally, two common dolphins and six Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins, both categorized as protected species under national environmental laws, were captured; none of the caught dolphins managed to survive.

Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty expressed the government’s dedication to finding a balanced approach to shark mitigation, addressing concerns about marine life impact. The government has been actively investing in initiatives such as increased aerial surveillance through drones, smart drumlines, listening stations, and community education programs to promote shark safety.

“At this stage, no decisions have been made about the future deployment of shark mesh nets,” a spokesperson said. “A decision will be made by the NSW Government before the start of the 2023/24 swimming season and following the tender and council consultation processes.”

Published 7-Aug-2023