Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 18 of 21

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

Prestigious Flickerfest Returns to the Refurbished Bondi Pavilion

Flickerfest, Sydney’s world-renowned, longest-running film festival, will be returning to the Bondi Pavilion, its home for two decades, in 2023.

Flickerfest director Bronwyn Kidd expressed nostalgia about returning to Bondi Pavilion for its 32nd year in 2023. She said that the historic venue, which was recently refurbished, has “few little rough edges here and there” but the amphitheatre has always been a magical place.

“We adapted with the Pavilion and we’ve evolved over so many years,” Ms Kidd said. “So it’s going to be really interesting to be back there in its new incarnation.”

Flickerfest will run from the 20th to 29th of January 2023. Showcasing thousands of short films from homegrown creatives, this Australian film festival is the only one that qualifies for the Academy Awards (Oscars) and the BAFTA.

Flickerfest 2023 will be funded with $135,000, up from $7,850 in 2019. Waverley Council has allocated $135,000 for the event. Reports cited that the boost in funding came at the 11th hour after Council defended the expense for the country’s most important short film fest.

A spokesperson said that they want to ensure Flickerfest will continue at the Bondi Pavilion. The venue has been upgraded in the last four years and was officially re-opened in September 2022.

Thousands ‘Strip Off’ On Bondi Beach For Skin Cancer Awareness

Photo credit: Screen capture from video by Spencer Tunick on Facebook

Bondi Beach turned into a nude beach for a day after thousands gathered for “Strip Off for Skin Cancer,” a one-of-a-kind photo shoot held to raise awareness about the condition, which can be life-threatening if not treated early. Queensland is one of Australia’s hotspots for skin cancer.

Read: Flave: New Restaurant With Plant-Based Menu By Celebrity Chef

The project was a collaboration between photographer Spencer Tunick and Skin Check Champions, a charity that helps communities who are most at risk of skin cancer by connecting them with their local GP, skin clinic, or dermatologist, or bringing specialists to the people through their free, educational pop-up skin check clinics.

Bondi Beach — Photo credit: https://sofsc.com.au/

“Strip Off for Skin Cancer” aims to challenge Australia by raising funds and awareness for its national skin check program. The idea is to flood social media with skin, encouraging people to donate to the charity’s program.

Everyone who would like to sign up may create their profile or start a team. Then, share it with as many of your mates as possible to get them on board as sponsors or ambassadors. The more Aussies sign up, the more people the charity will be able to save from skin cancer.

“We challenge you to do something brave and get your kit off for the cause (sun-safely and legally of course). Posting photos or videos doing whatever it is you love doing (in your undies / swimmers) to get people’s attention,” Skin Check Champions said.

Meanwhile, this kind of project isn’t new for Tunick, who is best known for organising large-scale nude shoots in various landmarks around the world. In 2010, 5,500 people gathered at the famous Opera House in Sydney for his shoot.

Bondi Beach Skin Cancer Awareness — Photo Credit: Facebook/Spencer Tunick

However, this was the first time in history that a nude shoot involving thousands of individuals took place in Bondi Beach. Tunick felt honoured to have this kind of opportunity, which allowed him to raise awareness in partnership with Skin Check Champions, whilst making his art.

The photo shoot coincided with the celebration of National Skin Cancer Action Week (Nov 21-27), which aims to create nationwide ‘skinspiration’ to help elevate the issue of skin cancer into the public consciousness.

One of the participants felt nervous about joining the photoshoot, but because everyone was respectful, despite the nature of the shoot, it ended up a fun and memorable experience for everyone.

Read: Bondi Beach Landmark Noah’s Backpackers Goes on the Market

To learn more about Skin Check Champions and their initiative, visit their website.

Noah’s Backpackers in Bondi Beach Changes Hands

Photo Credit: Google Maps

After several months of negotiations, Pub Baron Jon Adgemis has acquired the iconic Noah’s Backpackers in Bondi Beach for $68 million, amidst stiff competition from a few major developers.

Presented as one of Sydney’s biggest development opportunities, Noah’s Backpackers was sold to Adgemis’ Public Hospitality Group, beating several other big-time property developers including Ingham chicken empire heir Robby Ingham and Crown Hotel Surry Hills’ new owner George Karageorge.

The acquisition is the latest addition to the rapidly expanding Public Hospitality Group’s $400-million portfolio which currently controls 17 pubs and hospitality venues such as The Strand Hotel, The Empire Hotel, Norfolk Hotel, the Exchange Hotel, and Kurrajong Hotel.

The property was listed in April 2022 through an Expression of Interest campaign and whilst no price guide was offered, it was understood to be in the vicinity of $70 million.

Noah's Backpackers | — Noah’s Backpackers | Photo Credit: Google Maps

The former investment banker has yet to reveal his plans for the site but industry insiders say that Noah’s has the potential for a hotel, high-end residential or even a mixed-use development.

The group, however, needs to negotiate with Waverley Council to allow it to go higher than the 12.5-metre limit before any major redevelopment requiring added height can commence.

The 260-bed backpackers with breathtaking ocean views sit on a 1,087-sqm site at 2-12 Campbell Parade. The hostel was forced to lock down in 2020 and again last year due to COVID-19.

The last time a Campbell Parade property was sold was in late 2020 when 134-138 Campbell Parade, where Ben & Jerry’s Easy Mart and an eight Art Deco flat sits, was sold for a reported street record $26 million.

Bondi Beach Landmark Noah’s Backpackers Goes on the Market

Noah’s Backpackers, a landmark hostel in Bondi Beach, has been put on the market as a massive development opportunity for an investor to transform the three-storey building into a boutique apartment block.

Industry insiders said that the property may fetch more than $75 million with its prominent location at the corner of Campbell Parade. Its 1,087 square metres landholding has three street frontages, 260 bedrooms, and retail spaces.

Sales agent Matt Pontey of Colliers said that whilst investors familiar with the backpacking culture have expressed interest in acquiring the property, the site has a strong potential for mixed-use developers as well. He predicted that the sale could break records of prices paid on Campbell Parade.

Noah’s Backpackers was built in the 1930s and became a landmark site as the entry to the commercial area of Bondi Beach. Since the late 1990s, the hostel belonged to a family consortium who are now divesting its assets.

Beach lovers, cyclists, and hikers frequent this accommodation because of its proximity to all the essentials, including the heaps of shops and dining sites on Bondi beach. The site also gets large bookings from students and young people who want to enjoy a great experience in the suburb.

During the COVID-19 lockdowns, the hostel suffered outbreaks that forced authorities to cordon off the site. Needless to say, the pandemic has drastically changed the hostel and the hospitality business in general. However, with restrictions easing off Noah’s Backpackers is expected to be busy in no time, and could be busier if redeveloped.

The site has no heritage listing but Pontey hopes that its new owners will be “sympathetic to the character” of the precinct.