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Bronze Statue Honours Surfing Pioneer at Bondi Beach

A life-sized bronze statue of world surfing champion Pauline Menczer has been unveiled at Bondi Beach, recognising her achievements and influence in Australian surfing.

Bronze Sculpture Unveiled at Bondi Beach

A new statue celebrating surfing champion Pauline Menczer was installed at South Bondi Beach on 24 November 2025. The artwork portrays her as a young surfer looking out towards the ocean where she first learned to ride waves.

surfing history — *Photo Credit: Bill Morris via Surfing Australia/Instagram*

Pauline Menczer’s Background

Menczer won the 1993 world surfing title without sponsorship support and remains the only world champion to come from Bondi. She later gained further recognition through her appearance in the documentary Girls Can’t Surf and was inducted into the Australian Surfing Hall of Fame in 2018.

She was also featured in a Bondi Beach Sea Wall mural in 2022, adding to earlier acknowledgements of her contribution to the sport.

Pauline Menczer — *Photo Credit: Bill Morris via Surfing Australia/Instagram*

Creation and Funding of the Sculpture

The bronze figure was created by Australian artist Cathy Weiszmann. Funding was achieved through the community-led Pauline in Bronze campaign, which described Menczer as a pioneer who helped shape women’s competitive surfing. The completed work was provided as a community donation for installation at Bondi Beach.

Her Advocacy and Resilience

Menczer has been recognised for promoting equality in surfing and for her persistence in overcoming challenges including sexism, homophobia and rheumatoid arthritis. Supporters credit her impact on opportunities for women entering competitive surfing.

*Photo Credit: Bill Morris via Surfing Australia/Instagram*

Community Response

Community members responded with strong support following the statue’s unveiling. Comments on social media described her as a respected competitor, an encouraging presence in the water and a long-admired figure among surfers from Bondi and other regions.

Many noted that the recognition at Bondi Beach was significant for someone whose achievements were not fully acknowledged during her competitive career.

Ongoing Influence

Although now living in Brunswick Heads, Menczer continues to be associated with the surfing community. The statue’s location at Bondi Beach reflects her origins and acknowledges her lasting role in Australian surfing.

Published 7-Dec-2025

Research Drives Push For Clearer Safety Signs At Bondi Beach

Photo Credit: Nick Ang/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0

Many visitors across Australia’s patrolled beaches misunderstand the red and yellow safety flags, a finding that has pushed an Australian lifeguard and researcher to call for clearer surf warnings as the summer season approaches.

Concern Over Flag Misinterpretation

Studies released after mid 2024 showed many international students struggled to identify what the red and yellow patrol flags mean on Australian beaches. Research from Monash University found that many surveyed South Korean and Japanese students believed the red and yellow zone marked danger.

In Australia, these flags show the safest place to swim under lifeguard watch. The researcher behind the studies, Dr Masaki Shibata, works as a lifeguard in Sydney and said the confusion seen in the surveyed groups may also affect busy tourist locations such as Bondi Beach. He noted that many visitors linked the colour red with warning signals, which influenced how they judged beach safety.

Cultural Differences In Beach Signals

The studies found that visitors from regions with different flag systems often relied on the rules they learned at home. Many beaches in Europe and parts of Asia use green for safe conditions, yellow for caution and red for danger. This system differs from Australia’s use of red and yellow flags to mark the supervised swim zone.

Researchers said this difference led to confusion when visitors tried to match overseas rules with local practice. They also observed that respondents understood simple icons better than detailed English phrases, which suggested that visual tools may help people find safe areas faster.

Translation Problems Add To Risk

The research highlighted how common beach terms were often misunderstood or mistranslated. Words such as rip currents and shore break produced inaccurate results in some online translation tools. In some cases, these terms shifted to meanings linked to relaxation or rubbish, which did not show the level of danger.

These mistakes made it harder for visitors to understand surf conditions. The researcher stated that improving multilingual support and using clear pictograms would help visitors understand where lifeguards expect them to swim.

National Data Shows Ongoing Safety Gaps

The National Drowning Report for 2025 recorded 357 drowning deaths across Australia between July 2024 and June 2025. This number was higher than the 10 year average. The report showed that beaches were one of the most common places for fatal incidents and that rip currents remained a major danger along the coast.

It also noted that people unfamiliar with local water conditions faced greater risk. These findings support calls for more public education to help communities, visitors and families stay safe at busy locations, stay safe at busy locations, including popular patrolled beaches such as Bondi Beach, during peak travel periods.

Published 20-November-2025

Bondi Beach Residents Rally Against ‘Concrete Bunker’ Plan Beside Retirement Village

Photo Credit: Save South Bondi

Elderly residents at Bondi Beach are preparing to challenge a proposed six-storey development they say will block sunlight, fresh air, and coastal views from their retirement village. The proposed building at 32 Campbell Parade sits just metres from The Astra, a long-standing residence for retirees overlooking Sydney’s iconic shoreline.

Development Proposal Lodged In September

The development application, lodged with Waverley Council on 15 September 2025, outlines plans for a mixed-use building with a small commercial space at street level and three large residential apartments above. Architectural plans by DARC Studio show a six-level, 20-metre building with a rooftop plant area, only 4.2 square metres of deep soil, and about 10 square metres of landscaping.

The plans also include one 131-square-metre unit designated as affordable housing under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Housing) 2021, which allows for up to a 30 per cent increase in floor space and building height. The remaining units are described as large, multi-level apartments, likely targeting high-end buyers.

Neighbours Fear Loss Of Light And Privacy

Residents of The Astra, a six-storey retirement village next door, say the new building will block their ocean views, leaving only a narrow gap and minimal boundary setback between the structures.

*Photo Credit: Bondi Local Loop/Facebook*

Shadow diagrams in the development plans show significant overshadowing during the winter months, reducing sunlight in nearby apartments. Residents also worry about privacy, as the new building’s upper-level windows appear to directly overlook existing living areas. One resident, Darryl Bourke, said that the project would leave him with “no light, no sky, and no air.”

Council Review And Community Submissions

Waverley Council confirmed the application is still in its notification phase, meaning residents can lodge objections. Council staff will assess the project against local planning rules and state legislation, including the SEPP (Housing) 2021.

The proposal will then be referred to the Waverley Local Planning Panel, which will make the final decision independently of council. Council has acknowledged community concerns about sunlight, view loss, and neighbourhood character. A spokesperson stated that all resident submissions will be reviewed before an assessment report is completed.

Community Campaign Gains Momentum

A grassroots campaign, Save South Bondi, has emerged to coordinate community objections. The group’s website says the project breaches local height limits, risks overshadowing residents, and urges locals to email Waverley Council to oppose the “20-metre wall of concrete.”

Architectural plans confirm the building will replace an existing two-storey structure while retaining part of its heritage façade. The design’s bulk and height have fuelled concerns among long-time residents who view the project as incompatible with Bondi’s coastal setting.

For now, Bondi Beach residents remain determined to ensure their voices are heard. Many hope their objections will lead to a more balanced design that respects both development rights and community wellbeing.

Published 11-November-2025

Crowded House to Headline Golden Hour Live Music Series at Bondi Beach

Photo Credit: Crowded House/Instagram

Bondi Beach will host a landmark live music event next summer as Crowded House headlines the debut of Golden Hour, marking the first major concert on the beach in more than a decade.

Golden Hour Set to Launch at Bondi Beach

Sydney’s Bondi Beach will transform into a sunset stage on Friday, 20 February 2026, for the launch of Golden Hour, a new annual live music series produced by Fuzzy. The event will feature performances by Crowded House and Gamilaraay artist Thelma Plum, with more artists yet to be announced.

Running from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Golden Hour aims to establish an end-of-summer ritual celebrating Australian creativity, live performance, and community connection.

Golden Hour Bondi Beach — *Photo Credit: Crowded House/Instagram*

A Decade Since Bondi’s Last Major Concert

Golden Hour will be the first large-scale concert held on Bondi Beach in over ten years. The stage will sit directly on the sand, with guests encouraged to bring picnic rugs and enjoy the view from the foreshore hill.

The event’s visual identity has been developed by Warumungu/Wombaya artist Jessica Johnson of Nungala Creative, aligning with the series’ focus on First Nations representation and local artistry.

Celebrating Australian Icons

Crowded House, one of Australia and New Zealand’s most enduring bands, brings a legacy spanning more than 15 million albums sold, along with multiple ARIA, APRA, and BRIT Awards. Their 2024 album Gravity Stairs signalled a creative revival, leading to a world tour through 2025.

They will perform an extensive set at Bondi Beach, combining decades of hits with new material. Supporting artist Thelma Plum will perform songs from her 2023 album I’m Sorry, Now Say It Back, which affirmed her as a significant voice in contemporary Australian music.

Community and Cultural Impact

Golden Hour was designed to foster local engagement and celebrate collaboration between artists, designers, and communities. Fuzzy Managing Director Adelle Robinson said the event highlights the cultural stories and creative spirit that define modern Australia.

Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh also welcomed the announcement, describing the concert as an opportunity to strengthen the area’s cultural life and provide benefits for local creatives and businesses.

BUY TICKETS

Ticket Information and What’s Next

Presale tickets open at 12:00 p.m. AEDT on Wednesday, 12 November 2025, with Bondi locals gaining early access at 10:00 a.m.. General sales begin at 12:00 p.m. AEDT on Thursday, 13 November 2025.

Golden Hour is expected to return annually, bringing new lineups and experiences to Bondi Beach each summer

Published 3-Nov-2025

Surf Life Saving Australia Welcomes North Bondi Veteran Peter Agnew as New President

Peter Agnew, a long-standing member of North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club for more than 40 years, has been appointed President of Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA), marking a significant moment for both the local community and the national surf lifesaving movement.

Read: Bondi Rescue to Continue for “Many Years to Come” at Bondi Beach, Producers Confirm

Agnew takes over the role following the passing of former SLSA President John Baker AM ESM earlier this year. He brings decades of experience in surf lifesaving leadership, including roles at Surf Life Saving NSW and Surf Life Saving Sydney. His appointment was confirmed at SLSA’s Annual General Meeting in Sydney.

As a long-term active member of North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club, Agnew has been involved in patrolling beaches and supporting volunteer initiatives for over 40 years. He also served in governance and administrative roles across Sydney, contributing to surf lifesaving initiatives at both local and state levels.

Professionally, Peter Agnew is the Director of People Development Australia and works as a consultant with the Australian Institute of Management. He holds master’s degrees in Business Administration, Education, and Leadership Counselling, and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Over the past two decades, he has served on numerous boards, providing extensive leadership and governance experience.

Agnew’s appointment coincides with a historic milestone for Surf Life Saving, which has surpassed 200,000 members for the first time. This growth reflects the work of volunteers who patrol beaches, educate communities, and perform rescues nationwide. In the past year alone, volunteers contributed over 1.4 million patrol hours and carried out more than 8,200 rescues, representing a social and economic value exceeding $9 billion.

The year also saw a record number of coastal drowning deaths, with 154 fatalities reported. This underlines the continued importance of SLSA’s work in protecting Australians at the beach. Agnew’s leadership comes as the organisation continues to prioritise volunteer support, water safety, and community engagement.

SLSA CEO Adam Weir welcomed Agnew’s appointment, noting his extensive knowledge of the organisation and leadership experience. Agnew’s combination of local involvement, professional background, and long-term volunteer service provides a foundation for guiding Surf Life Saving Australia as it grows and strengthens its impact.

Read: Tama Touch Group Breaks World Record at Bondi in Support of Beyond Blue

For the North Bondi community, Agnew’s elevation to national leadership demonstrates the connection between local volunteer service and broader organisational governance. As summer approaches, SLSA continues to encourage safe beach practices while recognising the efforts of volunteers who contribute to public safety and the ongoing culture of surf lifesaving in Australia.

Published 11-November-2025

Viral Video Sparks Debate Over Bondi Runners Beach Etiquette

Photo Credit: TikTok / @lucycharlietravel

A video capturing dozens of runners streaming along Bondi Beach at sunrise has ignited heated discussion on social media about beach etiquette and the explosive growth of Sydney’s running community.

The footage, posted to TikTok and captioned “POV: Every sunrise at Bondi Beach”, shows a large group of joggers in activewear moving en masse along the iconic beachfront, while pedestrians navigate around them.

@lucycharlietravel all jokes aside fair play to all the runners out there every week 🤣 #bondirunclub #runclub #fyp #sydney #australiatravel ♬ original sound – kirsten_ssss

The runners belong to The Sydney Run Club, which gathers twice weekly at 5:30am on Wednesdays and Fridays. The group has amassed a following of 50,000 on Instagram and describes its mission as recognising that “running is more than just exercise – it’s a community, a passion, and a journey of self-discovery”.

Social media reaction to the footage has been sharply divided. Supporters praised the group’s dedication to fitness and community building, with one commenter noting: “I’m not a runner but I see a bunch of people doing something good for their bodies while making new friends.”

A participant in the run club defended the group, writing: “Well that’s me over there. Sorry not sorry.”

However, critics expressed frustration with the impact on other beachgoers. “It’s actually a nightmare when you’re walking and they run at you like a stampede. I wish they’d just go to an oval or a park,” one viewer wrote.

Others used stronger language, with one person describing the scene as a “cult” and another declaring it “ruining the serenity” of the beach.

The controversy reflects the broader trend of run clubs surging in popularity across Australia over the past year, particularly among younger Australians who are increasingly choosing early morning exercise over evening social activities. The phenomenon has been characterised by some as a shift towards fitness-focused socialising, with participants seeking connection and community alongside physical health benefits.

The debate raises questions about how Sydney’s public spaces accommodate the city’s evolving fitness culture, particularly at popular locations like Bondi Beach where different user groups compete for space during peak times.

Published 9-November-2025

Bondi Beach to Host First Australian Mighty Hoopla Festival Headlined by Kesha

Photo Credit: Mighty Hoopla

Bondi Beach will welcome international pop star Kesha as the headliner for the first Australian edition of the UK-born Mighty Hoopla music festival, bringing a major new pop event directly to one of Sydney’s most recognisable coastal locations.

Ticket Sales and Event Details

The festival is confirmed for Saturday 21 February 2026 at Bondi Beach. Presale access opens at 10am AEDT on Wednesday 22 October 2025, followed by general sale at 10am AEDT on Thursday 23 October 2025.

Standard tickets are expected to start from $169.90 plus booking fee, with VIP options from $299.90 plus fees. A discounted concession ticket from $99.90 will be available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and eligible concession card holders.

International and Local Lineup

Alongside Kesha, UK dance artist Becky Hill and Australian pop performers including Delta Goodrem and Jessica Mauboy have been announced. Organisers confirmed that further acts will include drag artists, queer party collectives, DJs and club performers from both Australia and overseas.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mighty Hoopla Sydney 🦘 (@mightyhoopla_sydney)

Mighty Hoopla builds a UK reputation for platforming inclusive pop culture and programs both mainstream and community-driven music experiences.

Organisers on Why Sydney Was Chosen

Event co-founder Jamie Tagg stated that Kesha’s previous Mighty Hoopla appearance in London earlier this year made her an immediate choice for the festival’s Australian launch.

Founder Glyn Fussell called Australia a second home for the team. He said Sydney’s pop audience shows strong support for live music and performance. Organisers cited the strong local response to previous pop tours as a key reason for choosing Bondi Beach. They expect a strong summer turnout.

What This Means for the Local Community

This marks the first time Mighty Hoopla has been staged outside the United Kingdom. The move positions Bondi Beach as a new home for the festival’s expansion and adds to Sydney’s 2026 major events calendar ahead of the peak summer tourism period.

Local businesses along the Bondi foreshore expect a surge in weekend foot traffic. Organisers position the event as a welcoming public celebration instead of a niche music showcase.

Published 22-October-2025

Bondi Beach Art-Deco Apartment Block Offers Redevelopment Entry

Photo Credit: Colliers

A striking art-deco block of four apartments located just 300 metres from the sand at Bondi Beach has sold at auction, with buyers receiving the site’s existing development approval for significant alterations and an extra floor.

The property at 34A Francis Street was marketed for its redevelopment potential and prime coastal location, illustrating how older residential buildings in tightly held beachside suburbs are attracting interest from developers and investors.

Sale details and property highlights

The building was listed on the site of the sale records as comprising four two-bedroom apartments, land area 463 square metres, and an internal floor area of about 308 square metres.

art-deco apartment Bondi Beach — *Photo Credit: Colliers*

It sold on 18 September 2025 at auction, with the listing stating “DA Approval for re-configuration” and on-site parking for three vehicles. The marketing emphasised its elevated position on a quiet residential street, yet within walking distance of Bondi’s lifestyle precinct and beachfront access.

Existing approval and zoning context

According to minutes from the Waverley Local Planning Panel, the property (alternate address 43A Denham Street) holds DA-118/2018 for alterations and additions to the residential flat building.

The listing confirms the building is zoned R3 High-Density Residential under Waverley Council, which allows redevelopment opportunities subject to consent. While the current approval covers residential alterations, any change of use would require a separate application.

Agents involved in the sale noted that compact, well-located holdings with redevelopment potential remain highly sought after in Bondi Beach.

Published 22-Oct-2025

Calls Grow to End Exclusive Surf Licence at Bondi Beach

Photo Credit: LetsGoSurfing/Facebook

A long-standing exclusive licence allowing only one surf school to operate at Bondi Beach has drawn criticism from locals and instructors who are calling for fairer access and competition.

Exclusive Surf School Rights at Bondi Beach

For nearly 30 years, surf lessons at Bondi Beach have been run solely by Let’s Go Surfing under Waverley Council’s licensing arrangement. The restriction prevents other surf schools from teaching on the same beach, sparking debate over access and fairness in the use of public space.

A local resident said her son has had to travel to Dee Why for lessons since his instructors cannot teach at Bondi. She and other parents believe local children should be able to learn in familiar conditions for safety and community reasons.

Bondi Beach surf licence — *Photo Credit: LetsGoSurfing/Facebook*

Push for Competition and Fair Access

Two Dee Why Salty Surf School instructors have urged the officials to allow a second operator at Bondi. They argue this would improve competition and reduce lesson costs.

Lesson fees currently differ between beaches. At Bondi Beach, a two-hour group session costs $140 and a private lesson $250, while the same operator charges $100 and $175 respectively at Maroubra Beach.

They also noted that the teaching limit of 20 students at a time could be shared between two schools without overcrowding.

Lets Go Surfing — *Photo Credit: LetsGoSurfing/Facebook*

Officials Review and Confidential Report

A confidential report accessed through freedom of information laws acknowledged that competition could reduce prices and improve equity but warned of potential operational conflicts and safety pressures.

The report outlined two options: maintaining one licence or trialling two for 18 months. Waverley Council reviewed the matter on May 20, then later held a closed meeting where officials voted to continue with the single licence model.

Operator’s Statement

Let’s Go Surfing said it supports the officials’ decision and remains committed to providing surf education at Bondi Beach, noting its nearly 30-year record under the current system.

Ongoing Community Discussion

Residents and instructors continue to question whether a single-operator arrangement best serves Bondi Beach, suggesting shared licensing could enhance access and affordability. For now, Bondi remains under the same policy — one operator, limited spaces, and continuing debate over the fairness of the system.

Published 12-Oct-2025

Etheus Brings Greek Island Dining To Bondi Beach

Photo Credit: etheus.bondi/instagram

Etheus has transformed the Bondi Pavilion dining scene with a bold Greek-inspired menu built around fire, flavour, and the coastal rhythm of Bondi Beach.

A New Chapter for Bondi Pavilion

Opened in September 2025, Etheus occupies the former Promenade site along Queen Elizabeth Drive, adding a relaxed yet polished dining experience to the beach’s social hub.

The restaurant, by hospitality group House Made Hospitality, has quickly become a drawcard for locals seeking Mediterranean food paired with sea views.

The venue’s leadership includes executive chef Chris Benedet, known for his work at Cirrus and Yellow, and head chef Stav Stavrou, who brings his Cypriot heritage and love for fire-led cooking to the menu. Together, they have created a menu focused on simplicity, warmth, and bold seasonal produce.

Food Made for Sharing

The dishes highlight the essence of Greek coastal dining with a Sydney touch. Diners can expect wood-fired souvlaki, spanakorizo, and seafood grilled over open flames.

Favourites include kefalograviera saganaki with honey and ouzo, Cyprus-style sheftalies, and braised lamb shoulder served with lemon and oregano.

The restaurant’s signature pita, made fresh daily, accompanies dips such as fava and taramasalata. Desserts like bougatsa with custard and pistachio complete the meal.

Community, Beach, and Celebration

Beyond food, Etheus is fast becoming a local gathering place. The verandah overlooks Bondi Beach, giving diners a front-row view of the coastline, while private rooms called The Dunes and The Grotto cater to community events and small celebrations.

Its Beach Bar connects directly to the promenade, creating a space where people can walk up for snacks, drinks, and DJ sets.

This November, the restaurant will host a Melbourne Cup lunch priced at $155 per person, featuring wood-fired dishes from Chef Benedet and a post-race party with music at the bar.

Local Roots with a Modern Twist

House Made Hospitality says Etheus represents a sharper, more distinctive identity for the space. The restaurant combines Sydney’s coastal lifestyle with Mediterranean flavours in a way that feels natural to the area.

With long-table sharing, open fire cooking, and a casual but refined setting, Etheus has quickly become part of Bondi’s food culture, appealing to locals who enjoy good food with ocean views.

Published 6-October-2025