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

Despite a star’s recent comments sparking widespread concern, the production company behind Bondi Rescue has firmly stated the beloved show about the lifesavers of Bondi Beach is not ending.

Recent reports suggesting the show’s end were triggered by an interview with lifeguard and show star Andrew ‘Reidy’ Reid. However, the production company behind the series has since clarified the situation and reaffirmed its commitment to the program.

Setting the Record Straight

*Photo Credit:* *Bondi Rescue TV/ Facebook*

Following the speculation, Michael Cordell, the creative director and co-founder of production company CJZ, addressed the cancellation rumours. He stated that while the company valued Reid, the lifeguard had been off-duty for some time and was not in a position to make announcements regarding the show’s financing or future. Cordell emphasised that CJZ is proud of the show and has ambitions to keep it running for many years.

An Australian Television Staple

For nearly two decades, Bondi Rescue has been a fixture in Australian homes and across the globe. The factual series first premiered on Channel 10 in 2006, documenting the daily challenges and lifesaving rescues performed by the professional lifeguards at one of the world’s most famous stretches of sand. Narrated by Osher Gunsberg, the program has earned critical acclaim, winning six Logie Awards and becoming an important cultural export, broadcasting in many other countries.

The Future on the Sand

CJZ confirmed it is actively working to secure the show’s return. The company is currently renegotiating a multi-year deal with Waverley Council to begin shooting a new season. Cordell noted that broadcast partner Channel 10 still wants the program and that it is expected to be delivered as planned.

He explained that the show took a welcome hiatus last season, which also allowed them to avoid filming during what was a particularly woeful summer for weather. The production team fully expects to be back filming on the beach for the upcoming summer. Cordell added that season 18 was widely seen as the best one yet, highlighting that there are still many important stories to tell about the lifeguards’ extraordinary work and the vital surf safety messages they promote.

Published Date 08-August-2025

Kazzi Beach Greek Brings Island Flavours to Bondi

A fresh dining spot has landed in Bondi, bringing with it the sun-soaked flavours of the Mediterranean. Kazzi Beach Greek has officially opened its doors on O’Brien Street, offering locals a relaxed, island-style dining experience just a short stroll from the sand.

Read: Local Restaurant Guide – 2026

Inspired by the laid-back atmosphere of the Greek Islands, the restaurant focuses on sharing-style meals and coastal charm. The menu spans breakfast through dinner every day of the week, featuring classic dishes such as grilled octopus, lamb and chicken wraps, hearty meat platters, and traditional sweets like galaktoboureko and shortbreads.

Photo credit: Kazzi Beach Greek Bondi/Google Maps

This latest venue is the third in the Kazzi Beach Greek portfolio, which already includes well-loved locations in Balmoral and Manly. The group’s founder sees the Bondi opening as a significant step, noting that the suburb’s vibrant lifestyle and cultural diversity make it an ideal match for their style of hospitality.

Since opening, the Bondi restaurant has already drawn in a steady stream of curious locals and beachgoers. Early visitors have praised the arrival of a quality Greek dining option in the area, with one diner expressing delight that Bondi finally has a standout spot for authentic Greek food. Another shared their experience, highlighting the vibrant freshness of the salad, the perfectly cooked, tender chicken, and the soft, warm pita bread that rounded out their meal.

Read: Bondi Beach Kicks Off National Avocado Day with Sunrise Breakfast Rave

The team behind Kazzi aims to offer more than just a meal—it’s about creating a space where people gather, share stories, and enjoy generous hospitality. They view the new Bondi taverna as a natural extension of both Greek warmth and the beachside community spirit that defines the area. Locals can expect more to come, with a fourth Kazzi location already in the pipeline and set to launch early next year.

Published 8-August-2025

Musical Pioneer Ernie Davidson Honoured for Legacy in Bondi Beach

Photo Credit: Australian Songwriter Association

The songwriting legacy of Ernie Davidson, who was born and composed early works in Bondi Beach, continues to gain attention for its role in Australia’s early popular music history.

Early Life and Local Influence

Ernie Davidson was born on 2 December 1919 in Bondi, New South Wales. Raised at 19 Penkivil Street, he later composed many of his early songs at this location and at a relative’s home on Ocean Street, Bondi. His musical foundation began under the guidance of his pianist mother and continued with formal training at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music from the age of 11.

Breaking into the U.S. Market

In 1946, Davidson composed the music for Kiss-Kiss-Kissin’ in the Corn at a boarding house in Bondi. Ken Taylor, based in Burwood, provided the lyrics. The song was recorded three times in the United States within two years—by Captain Stubby and the Buccaneers, Dale Evans, and The Dick Jurgens Orchestra. The first Billboard listing occurred on 31 January 1948, with another review following on 19 June 1948. This marked the first time a song with both lyrics and music by Australians received recognition from American Billboard.

Ernie Davidson — *Photo Credit: Australian Songwriter Association*

Recording History

Kiss-Kiss-Kissin’ in the Corn was also recorded four times in Australia, including versions by Lou Campara and His Serenaders, Johnny (Tex) and Mary Croft, and Wilbur Kentwell. The Dick Jurgens version was later used as the introduction for an American radio program hosted by Arthur Godfrey. The song generated strong local airplay and royalties.

A Broad Catalogue

Davidson composed over 300 songs from 1945 to 1995 across genres such as Australiana, country and western, novelty, hymns, and cowboy songs. Notable titles include My Kind of Country, Where the Blue Gums Turn Red in the Sunset, and You’re Out of My Mind. The latter won recognition in a 1964 national songwriting competition and was later used in a stage production soundtrack.

*Photo Credit: Australian Songwriter Association*

Preservation and Recognition

Davidson’s daughter, Lin Golab, has spent 18 years archiving his work and has submitted much of his collection to the National Film and Sound Archive. Materials include handwritten scores, early recordings, letters, and sheet music. She continues to advocate for formal recognition of Davidson’s contributions to Australian music.

Continuing Legacy

Ernie Davidson passed away on 2 April 1996. His final song was written in October 1995, and a posthumous recording was completed in 1999. With works spanning six decades, his influence is now being revisited, particularly in Bondi Beach, where it all began.

Published 3-Aug-2025

Bondi Beach Gears Up as Tens of Thousands Join City2Surf 2025

Photo Credit: City2Surf/Facebook

Tens of thousands of runners, walkers and families will once again take to Sydney’s streets this August, all making their way to one of the country’s most iconic destinations, Bondi Beach, for the return of the world’s largest fun run, City2Surf.

With over 500 charities involved, City2Surf isn’t just Australia’s biggest fun run—it’s a powerful force for good. Funds raised go directly to causes like children’s hospitals (Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation), cancer research (Cancer Council NSW), mental health services (Black Dog Institute), and more. Whether you’re running for Team Black Dog (mental health), Team Sydney Children’s Hospitals, or for a personal reason, every dollar raised changes lives. Charity entries are still available if you want to make your run count for something special!

A Tradition That Brings Sydney Together

The 14-kilometre City2Surf is set for Sunday, 10 August 2025, starting at Hyde Park and finishing at Bondi Beach. Around 85,000 participants are expected, with general entry now sold out and limited fundraising spots still open.

Since 1971, the event has become a Sydney tradition, blending fitness, fun and community. From competitive runners to families in costumes, thousands hit the course each year to raise funds and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Over $55 million has been raised since 2008, with last year alone bringing in more than $3.1 million.

“Last year, our incredible fundraisers at Team Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation raised over $692,000 at City2Surf.

These vital funds supported the life-changing work of Sydney’s two children’s hospitals (Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick and The Children’s Hospital at Westmead) specialised care services (Bear Cottage and the Newborn and paediatric Emergency Transport Service [NETS) and Kids Research.

Join us in 2025 to help change the future for sick kids.”
Jonny Miller, Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation

The Course: From City Streets to Coastal Views

City2Surf kicks off in Sydney’s CBD, winding through scenic eastern suburbs with views of the harbour and city skyline. One of the most talked-about stretches is Heartbreak Hill, a steep 2-kilometre climb near Rose Bay that challenges even seasoned runners.

After that, the course rolls downhill through Vaucluse and along Military Road before the final leg toward Bondi. Runners are released in waves based on speed, starting with elite athletes at around 7:35 a.m. Road closures will begin early, from 3:30 a.m., to ensure the route is clear and safe for the day.

Public Transport Encouraged for All

Transport for NSW is urging participants to leave their cars at home due to extensive road closures and special event clearways along the route. Free travel is available on trains, buses, Metro, light rail and ferries for anyone wearing a race bib or volunteer pass.

Shuttle buses will also run from Bondi Beach to Bondi Junction after the finish. All runners must cross the finish line by 2:00 p.m., when official timing ends and transport services begin to return to normal.

A Community Effort That Goes Beyond the Race

City2Surf isn’t just a run, it’s a celebration of Sydney’s community spirit. From local volunteers and emergency services to live performers and small businesses, the entire city plays a role in bringing the day to life.

Published 30-July-2025

Bondi Beach Hosts Giant Boost Juice Cup For 25th Birthday Bash

Photo Credit: boost_juice/instagram

A six-metre-tall Boost Juice cup has landed at Bondi Beach as part of a week-long celebration marking the brand’s 25th birthday.

A Juicy Milestone by the Sea

Boost Juice is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a week-long Boost Big Time event at Bondi Beach, running from 26 July to 1 August on the corner of Roscoe Street and Campbell Parade. Featuring a giant inflatable cup, the event includes free smoothies, beach games, live DJs, giveaways and community activations.

Designed to bring tropical energy to winter, the festivities run daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (4:30 p.m. on the final day). Visitors can snap photos, join fruity flash mobs and enjoy the vibrant, summer-themed atmosphere.

Nostalgia on the Menu

As part of its anniversary celebration, Boost Juice has brought back popular throwback smoothies like Tropic Chill, Mango Magic and Banana Buzz through its app-exclusive “Big Time Favourites” menu. The limited-time flavours rotate weekly, inviting fans to revisit classics that helped grow Boost from a small Adelaide shop into a national brand.

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A post shared by Boost Juice (@boost_juice)

On 23 July, a fun nationwide promo offered free drinks to anyone named Janine or Barry, paying tribute to founder Janine Allis and mascot Barry. The campaign aims to boost engagement while celebrating Boost’s playful identity and loyal community.

Giving Back to Loyal Customers

Boost Juice is running a national prize draw from 7 to 31 July through its Vibe Rewards program, giving customers a chance to win by simply scanning their Vibe account or ordering via the app.

Each day, one winner receives $572 in store credit, about a Boost a week for a year. A total of 25 winners will be announced on the brand’s website throughout the month. The competition, open nationwide with any qualifying purchase, is Boost’s way of thanking loyal customers for 25 years of support.

Celebrating in Style

To celebrate its anniversary, Boost Juice has released limited-edition merchandise including caps, reusable totes and mini cup keyrings, available online from 18 July for a short time. The colourful collection complements the vibrant Bondi Beach event, which is free and open to the public.

Locals and visitors are invited to join the fun, whether for a smoothie, a beachside dance or a photo with the giant cup. More than a celebration, the campaign marks Boost’s effort to reconnect with communities across Australia.

Published 30-July-2025

Bondi Beach Kicks Off National Avocado Day with Sunrise Breakfast Rave

Bondi Beach was transformed into a lively morning dance floor as locals gathered to celebrate National Avocado Day with a free breakfast rave, inviting the community to start their day with music, fresh avo toast and high-energy togetherness.

Bondi Community Welcomes Sunrise Party

The energy at Bondi Beach rose before the sun as residents and visitors made their way to Lamrock Café for a unique pop-up breakfast event. The celebration, hosted in partnership with Australian Avocados, brought people from all walks of life together for a morning of music and health-focused fun on Sydney’s most iconic shoreline.

The event’s focus was on connection, wellness and a shared love for avocado, with organisers stating that Australians are increasingly choosing healthy morning rituals over traditional late-night parties.

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A post shared by Australian Avocados (@australianavocados)

Avo Toast, DJ Beats and Local Flair

From the start of the event, DJ Mistah Cee set the tone with upbeat remixes, turning the usually calm morning air into a vibrant dance floor. Attendees enjoyed complimentary avocado toast canapés, with organisers sharing their excitement to offer Sydneysiders a taste of fresh Australian produce.

Those keen to show off their dance moves were also in for a treat, with limited edition “Avo Breakfast Rave Six Packs” and themed jumpers handed out as giveaways to the most enthusiastic participants.

Wellness and Community at the Centre

As the crowd danced with the sunrise, event organisers highlighted the growing trend toward wellness-focused activities. The breakfast rave was designed to promote healthier ways to connect as a community, encouraging locals to swap hangovers for early starts and active mornings. Many participants said they appreciated the chance to come together in a positive, alcohol-free environment, surrounded by Bondi’s coastal beauty.

A Day to Remember at Bondi Beach

With the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop, the National Avocado Day breakfast rave gave the Bondi community a morning to remember, blending great music, local food and good company. The event captured the spirit of Sydney’s love for healthy living and community connection, with attendees leaving energised to take on the rest of the day.

Published 31-July-2025

Permanent Memorial Proposed for Westfield Bondi Stabbing Victims

Photo Credit: NSW Government

A permanent memorial is being planned to honour the six lives lost in the Bondi Junction Westfield stabbing tragedy, with Waverley Council leading discussions to create a space for reflection and healing in the heart of the community.

A Space for Reflection, Not Just a Tribute

The attack on 13 April 2024, left six people dead and several injured in a stabbing at Westfield Bondi Junction, prompting an outpouring of grief across Sydney. Since then, flowers and tributes have filled public spaces like Oxford Street Mall and Bondi Beach. One year later, these spontaneous gestures are helping shape a permanent memorial led by Waverley Council.

Rather than a stark monument, early ideas focus on a garden-like setting with curved paths and soft landscaping to encourage reflection and rest. Inspired by the pressed flowers from anniversary displays, the design aims to feel gentle and intimate, a space for quiet remembrance and emotional healing.

Choosing the Right Artist and Approach

Instead of holding a public competition, council members preferred to invite a select group of artists, ideally an Australian woman, given that five of the six victims were women. The Arts, Culture and Creativity Advisory Committee emphasised the need for a careful, unrushed process.

They stressed that both the victims’ families and the broader community should be consulted. Across all discussions, there was strong agreement that the memorial must centre on care, mental wellbeing and a deep sense of local relevance.

Memorial to Fit Within the Broader Bondi Vision

The permanent memorial’s location is still undecided but will align with the broader Bondi Junction masterplan. Council is working with groups including Waverley Council, Scentre Group, and the local community to find the right site.

Officials say the space must feel peaceful and accessible without disrupting the area. Oxford Street Mall, already a site of tributes and vigils, is a strong contender, though final decisions are still underway.

Government and Community Support Remain Strong

The NSW Government, Waverley Council and other partners marked the one-year anniversary in April 2025 with public tributes, including photos and messages from the 2024 Bondi Beach vigil. These displays were a step toward acknowledging collective grief and supporting the community.

Planning for the permanent memorial continues alongside ongoing mental health and victim support services. Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to honouring the victims through thoughtful action and lasting care.

Published 29-July-2025

Council’s Equipment Removal Divides Bondi Beach Fitness Community

Photo Credit: Instagram / @bondifitness

A heated debate has erupted in Bondi after Waverley Council’s decision to remove equipment from the popular beachside fitness station has left regular users frustrated and divided the community over who should have access to public fitness spaces.

The weights and dumbbells were removed from the Bondi Park Fitness Station in March following complaints about public safety risks and concerns that the outdoor gym had become dominated by male users, creating an unwelcoming environment for women and other community members.

Council documentation revealed that safety concerns included potential trip hazards from equipment left on the ground and items being stored inappropriately around the fitness station. The removal was also part of broader efforts to “rein in commercial operators” from using the area.

Regular user Joey Pamment expressed bewilderment at the council’s approach, questioning how an outdoor gym could function without proper equipment. He emphasised the community spirit that developed when people of different backgrounds trained together at the free public facility.

Another longtime user, Louise Brandon, countered claims about gender exclusivity, noting that people of varying ages and genders had regularly used the weights, which had encouraged her own participation in the space.

However, not everyone shared this view. Bondi-based fitness trainer Vix Erber argued that the outdoor gym had developed a culture that discouraged many potential users, particularly women and older residents, from feeling comfortable exercising there.

The controversy has highlighted broader tensions about how public fitness spaces should operate and who they truly serve. While some users celebrated the inclusive, community atmosphere they experienced, others described feeling excluded by what they saw as an intimidating environment.

Council confirmed they are developing plans to allow weights to return to the site, but with new conditions including limits on equipment numbers and stricter rules about placement and storage.

Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh indicated the new conditions aim to strike a balance between accommodating regular fitness enthusiasts and addressing concerns raised by the broader community.

The debate comes as neighbouring Randwick Council moves ahead with outdoor fitness investments. Randwick has existing outdoor gym facilities at Maroubra Beach and is planning upgrades to equipment and layout following community consultation.

The Bondi fitness station controversy reflects wider conversations happening across Sydney’s coastal councils about balancing public access to recreational facilities with community safety and inclusivity concerns. The outcome may influence how other councils approach similar facilities in their areas.

For now, regular users of the Bondi Park Fitness Station continue exercising with the remaining fixed equipment, while waiting to see what conditions will apply when the free weights eventually return to Australia’s most famous beachside workout spot.

Published 28-July-2025

Initium Eyes Luxury Apartments Project in Bondi Beach

Photo Credit: Pexels

A group of properties near Bondi Beach, including the local post office, is being assembled into a proposed $80 million site for luxury apartment redevelopment.

Major Property Deal Near Bondi Beach

A property fund manager is seeking to acquire a combined 1800-square-metre site along Hall Street in Bondi Beach, involving several adjacent shopfronts. The site is positioned just metres from Campbell Parade, a key route parallel to the beachfront.

Hall Street Bondi — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Background and Site Details

The proposed amalgamation includes properties currently occupied by Australia Post, Anglicare, Uturn, a backpackers hostel, and a hardware store. It is regarded as one of the largest private site consolidations in the suburb’s history. The current landowners opted to collectively market their properties in response to recent changes in planning policy that support higher-density developments.

Capital Raising and Development Plans

The site is being targeted by Initium Capital, which has launched a fund seeking $29 million in equity to finalise the acquisition by the end of July 2025. The fund is forecasting a 25 per cent annual return. Initium plans to transform the area into a four-storey residential complex with boutique retail space at street level.

As part of its development approach, Initium intends to apply the state’s housing density bonus scheme, which provides height and floor space incentives in return for dedicating part of the project to affordable housing.

Bondi redevelopment — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Gentrification and Urban Renewal

This move comes amid a wider push for urban renewal in Bondi Beach. The NSW government and Waverley Council have both flagged Hall Street—particularly the section between O’Brien Street and Campbell Parade—as a strategic corridor for redevelopment. A nearby example includes a 17-unit project at 45 Hall Street, where the penthouse sold for $22 million in 2024.

The Waverley Council area, which includes Bondi Beach, is expected to deliver 2400 new homes by 2029 under the state’s housing targets.

Next Steps

The acquisition is expected to close by the end of the month, pending successful capital raising. If finalised, the development will add to the ongoing transformation of the Bondi Beach precinct through medium-rise, high-end housing and mixed-use projects.

Published 24-July-2025

Surf Lifesavers from Bondi Beach Receive National Medals

Photo Credit: Bondi Surf Life Saving Club/Instagram

Three surf lifesavers from Bondi Beach have been recognised in a national honours list for their long-standing volunteer service in coastal safety.

Bondi Beach Lifesavers Honoured for Service

Three members of the Bondi Surf Bathers Life Saving Club have received National Medals in Surf Life Saving Australia’s (SLSA) 53rd medal batch. The award recognises individuals who have completed 15 or more years of continuous voluntary service in surf lifesaving roles. These include beach patrols, emergency response, and other lifesaving duties.

National Recognition for Lifesaving Volunteers

A total of 107 surf lifesavers were included in the latest round of honours. Of these, 95 were recognised with the National Medal for 15 years of service, while 11 received a 1st Clasp for 25 years. One recipient was additionally recognised with a 2nd Clasp, marking 35 years of service.

Bondi Beach’s Thomas Nguyen, Maxwell Serpa Gonzalez, and Geoff Sumner were among those acknowledged for 15 years of service. The three contributed to public safety along one of Australia’s busiest and most visited beaches.

Role of Bondi Beach in the Surf Life Saving Movement

Bondi Beach holds a significant place in the country’s surf lifesaving tradition. It is home to the Bondi Surf Bathers Life Saving Club, one of Australia’s oldest. The beach has long been associated with coastal safety, volunteer training, and organised patrol activity. The latest medals highlight the continuing contribution of Bondi’s lifesavers on a national scale.

National Framework and Eligibility

The National Medal is part of the official Australian honours system. It is awarded to individuals who have placed themselves at risk in service to the community over an extended period. Eligibility and nomination procedures are outlined in Surf Life Saving Australia’s Recognition and Appreciation Framework, accessible through the SLS Members Area.

Published 14-July-2025