Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 7 of 21

Big Walk for Little Kids Launches at Bondi Beach

The Big Walk for Little Kids fundraising campaign will launch at Bondi Beach, bringing families, participants and supporters together for a community walk.

Bondi Beach Event to Mark Launch

The Big Walk for Little Kids will officially begin at Bondi Surf Bathers’ Life Saving Club on Saturday, 30 August. From 8 a.m., participants can collect free merchandise and enjoy entertainment before stepping out at 9:30 a.m. for a community walk along the Bondi promenade.

Celebrity surf lifesaver Harries Carroll, the campaign’s 2025 champion, will join the event. Families and supporters, including eight-year-old Hermione, who was diagnosed with leukaemia just before her fifth birthday, will also take part in the launch.

Background on the Fundraiser

Now in its sixth year, the Big Walk for Little Kids invites Australians to walk 50 km, 100 km or 150 km throughout September to raise funds for children and families impacted by cancer. The campaign is organised by Camp Quality and supported nationally by ALDI.

Since its inception, the initiative has raised more than $7.8 million. For the 2025 campaign, more than 6,500 people and over 620 teams have already registered, raising more than $587,000. Funds support Camp Quality programs such as Family Camps, Kids’ Camps, Family Getaways and services delivered by Child Life Therapists.

Stories of Families Involved

Participants include families like Hermione’s, who joined Camp Quality activities after her diagnosis. Her mother described the impact of programs such as camps, picnics and family getaways, which provided moments of fun during treatment.

Other fundraisers, such as Isabelle, are walking in memory of loved ones. Isabelle is taking part to honour her son Ryder, who was diagnosed with leukaemia at two and a half years old and passed away in 2015. She explained that walking in the campaign allows her to help bring joy to other children facing similar challenges.

Next Steps

Registrations remain open throughout September, with sign-ups available at the Bondi Beach launch and online. Participants can track their kilometres, share their fundraising pages and continue contributing to the campaign nationwide.

Published 28-Aug-2025

Robyn Smith’s Bold City2Surf Run Highlights Genetic Cancer Awareness

Photo Credit: Inherited Cancers Australia/Facebook

For Robyn Smith, the 14 kilometres of City2Surf were about more than running, they were about confronting inherited cancer head-on and demanding support for those at risk.

Event Highlights and Timing

Robyn Smith, a 46-year-old mother of three from Canberra, completed this year’s Voltaren City2Surf bare-chested to raise awareness about inherited cancer risks. She ran the 14-kilometre course from Sydney’s CBD to Bondi Beach with her double mastectomy scars on display, the words “Flat out for funding” painted across her chest.

*Photo Credit: Inherited Cancers Australia/Facebook*

The message aimed to draw attention to a charity supporting those with genetic cancer risk that receives no government funding. Held on Sunday, the 2025 City2Surf marked its 55th year and attracted about 90,000 participants. Smith crossed the finish line among thousands raising money and awareness for causes close to their hearts.

A Personal Journey

Smith carries the BRCA2 gene mutation, which significantly increases the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Her family history includes multiple relatives diagnosed with these illnesses.

In 2018, she underwent a preventative double mastectomy and initially chose reconstruction, but later had the implants removed after health issues she linked to breast implant illness. She has since chosen to remain “flat” and uses public events like City2Surf to show that living without reconstruction is a valid choice.

Advocacy and Fundraising Goals

Her City2Surf run was part of a fundraising effort for Inherited Cancers Australia (ICA), a patient advocacy group that supports people with a genetic predisposition to certain cancers. The organisation, currently without federal funding, relies on community donations and corporate sponsorship.

Smith said she hoped her bold approach would not only raise awareness but also encourage more sustainable support for groups like ICA.

Inspiration from Abroad

Smith’s decision to run topless was inspired by UK advocate Louise Butcher, known as “The Topless Runner,” who has twice completed the London Marathon while living flat.

Smith said she wanted to send the same message in Australia, that women can be flat, strong and unapologetic. Her appearance at City2Surf resonated with many along the course, with supporters cheering and taking interest in her cause.

Published 13-August-2025

Warming Seas May Bring Year-Round Bull Sharks to Bondi

Bondi’s iconic shores are seeing sharks stick around for longer as ocean temperatures rise, with researchers warning that bull sharks may soon become a year-round presence.

Read: Bondi Could See Shark Nets Removed in New Beach Safety Trial

New findings based on 15 years of acoustic tracking data from 92 migratory bull sharks show that these predators are now lingering off the Sydney coastline for an average of 15 days longer in summer than they were in 2009. The warmer water is disrupting traditional migration patterns, which typically saw bull sharks head north to Queensland during the colder months.

Bondi Beach, a hotspot for both swimmers and researchers, is at the centre of these changing patterns. The area has recorded a gradual rise in sea-surface temperatures, averaging a 0.57°C increase between 2006 and 2024, extending the window when sharks are likely to be present.

Recent real-time data supports these findings. On July 29 at 2:41 am, White Shark #2194 was detected by a receiver just off Bondi, according to the Dorsal Watch shark alert system. Another detection, recorded on August 8, involved an unspecified species triggering a Bondi receiver.

Although shark bites remain rare, the prolonged presence of bull sharks off Bondi could increase the overlap between these large predators and beachgoers. Experts say that while the risks are still low, awareness is key as warming seas shift marine behaviours.

The trend is not only affecting bull sharks. Researchers have also observed changes in the distribution of other species, with early signs of juvenile bull sharks moving further south and cooler-water species like great whites appearing less frequently in their traditional northern ranges.

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

The ongoing warming of Sydney’s coastal waters could mean that Bondi swimmers will need to remain shark-aware for longer periods each year, especially as tracking data reveals more frequent activity close to shore.

Published 8-August-2025

Shark Net Removal Trial Sinks After Refusal to Nominate Beaches

A proposed trial to replace traditional shark nets at Bondi and other Sydney beaches has now stalled, after Waverley, Northern Beaches, and Central Coast pulled back from nominating sites — creating a policy deadlock with the state.

Drawing Evidence from Earlier Net Removals

Earlier this year, nets were removed from some beaches a month early to protect migrating turtles. Experts are now reviewing data from the trial to assess how alternative safety measures perform during busy beach periods.

The plan involves Waverley, Northern Beaches, and Central Coast each selecting one site for the program. Nominations close on 22 August, with a final decision expected before summer.

A New Approach to Protecting Swimmers and Marine Life

The trial would use equipment already in place along parts of the coast, such as drones, SMART drumlines, and shark listening stations. These tools aim to spot and deter sharks without harming other marine species, addressing long-standing concerns about nets catching turtles, dolphins, and rays.

*Photo Credit: HSI-AMCS-N McLachlan through Humane Society International Australia*

Bondi’s current net covers only part of the beach, and experts say it does not act as a complete barrier. For some residents, the trial offers a chance to test whether technology can make the beach safer while reducing environmental harm.

But Councils are now stepping back as these alternative methods remain untested at Bondi this summer. Waverley Council indicated it did not want the responsibility of deciding whether to remove nets from Bondi or Bronte, saying the decision should rest with the NSW. Northern Beaches Council also declined to nominate a site, and Central Coast Council has requested more time.

Weighing Their Options

Waverley Council, which manages Bondi Beach, has said it would only back the trial if extra safety measures are added, including more drone patrols and additional SMART drumlines.

That position has now shifted, with the council opting not to nominate a beach at all. Northern Beaches Council has also backed away from the trial, while the Central Coast is delaying a final answer.

Amid this, the state has confirmed it will renew lucrative shark net contracts — worthe than $2.4 million last year — after the previous agreements expired in June. The three councils were initially chosen for the trial because they had long advocated for net removal.

Balancing Public Safety with Conservation Goals

NSW officials say the trial is designed to test whether non-lethal methods can provide the same level of safety as nets while reducing harm to marine life. Marine scientists have pointed out that nets are not complete enclosures and that sharks often swim around them, raising questions about their effectiveness.

For now, those questions remain unanswered, as the withdrawal of council support means Bondi and other trial beaches will continue using nets when the season begins in September.

For the Bondi community, the move could shape the future of beach safety, offering a way to protect both swimmers and the coastal environment. If similar trials are revived in future seasons, they could reopen the debate — but for this summer, the status quo remains.

Published 06-August-2025

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

Photo Credit: Bondi Rescue TV/ Facebook

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.

View this post on Instagram

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.

View this post on Instagram

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