Bondi Beach is putting a stop to boozy beach parties and some commercial events that sell alcohol on its golden sands.
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The move comes after Waverley Council approved a new policy in February aimed at preventing “high impact” alcohol-fueled festivities from taking over the famous shoreline.
Whilst major community events like the Mardi Gras celebrations, Sculpture by the Sea, and City2Surf race will be exempt, the ruling prohibits any commercial operators from hawking alcoholic beverages at beach events under the council’s jurisdiction. This ban will remain until a formal review of outdoor event policies is conducted.
“To keep our beaches, parks and streets safe we have a number of alcohol-free zones in place throughout the year. Bondi, Tamarama and Bronte beaches and public streets are classified as alcohol-free zones. This means you are not permitted to consume alcohol in these areas,” Waverley Council stated.
The push was led by Councillor Paula Masselos, who stressed that Bondi is “not an event venue or brand” but rather “exists within a local community where people live their daily lives.” She said residents have been vocal about keeping the beach free from drunken parties and commercial interests.
Cr Masselos stated that the message from the community had been clear – residents did not want large, alcohol-focused events taking over Bondi’s beach. She said the beaches belong to everyone and should not be turned into corporate playgrounds.
The debate was reignited in 2020 when a proposed Amalfi-style beach club aimed to offer beachside alcohol and food service for a few months. But the plan was scrapped amid resident uproar over privatising public space.
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With the new alcohol ban for high impact events officially in place, Bondi’s sandy shores will remain dry for any boozy beach bashes or pop-up bars in the future.
Published 7-March-2024