Bondi Beach Archives - Bondi Beach News

Sand and Water Runoff Causes Ongoing Issues for Bondi Beach Residents

Residents living near Bondi Beach are facing ongoing problems with flooding and sand build-up caused by runoff from a nearby golf course during heavy rains.

Bondi Beach flooding issue — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

The issue has resulted in property damage, rising insurance premiums, and frustration among homeowners.

Background of the Issue

The problem stems from a nine-hole golf course located on land overlooking Bondi Beach. Over the past few years, erosion and poor drainage have created channels directing water and sand runoff into residential properties. Residents report that heavy rain events turn their yards into muddy swamps, with sand piling up to knee height in some areas.

Challenges and Interim Solutions

Homeowners have raised their concerns multiple times, but both the golf course management and local authorities have been slow to implement a lasting solution.The Waverley local authorities, who manage the golf course, recently approved an $80,000 budget to construct a swale—a shallow drainage channel—to divert water and sand away from residential properties. Project completion is expected to be in early 2025.

In the meantime, temporary sandbags have been installed along vulnerable areas to reduce the immediate impact of future rainfall.

Sand and water runoff damaging residential yards — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Community Frustration Grows

Residents like Jeff and Jeanette, who have lived near the golf course for decades, report significant disruption to their daily lives. Jeff described the flooding as a “waterfall of sand,” while Jeanette noted the ongoing hygiene issues caused by mud and debris. Rising insurance premiums have added financial strain, with some residents seeing their bills more than double in recent years.

Despite temporary measures, residents believe the response has been slow and insufficient. Some have even taken matters into their own hands, installing private drainage systems at their own expense.

Next Steps and Outlook

With the swale construction planned for early 2025, residents remain cautiously optimistic. In the interim, they are calling for additional short-term measures, such as improved sandbagging and more frequent maintenance.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges of managing water runoff in urban coastal areas like Bondi Beach, where natural and built environments intersect. For now, residents are left hoping that upcoming mitigation efforts will finally bring an end to years of disruption and uncertainty.

Published 29-Dec-2024

Academy-Qualifying Film Festival Returns to Bondi Beach with 200 Global Shorts

Photo Credit: Flickerfest/Facebook

Australia’s premier short film festival will, once again, showcase more than 200 films from around the world at Bondi Beach, featuring works from emerging filmmakers alongside internationally recognised talent in its 34th edition.

Festival Overview

Flickerfest will run from 17-26 January, 2025, at the Bondi Pavilion, screening films under the stars. The festival, which qualifies winners for Academy Award and BAFTA consideration, selected these films from more than 3,400 entries worldwide. The event spans 10 days with 24 dedicated programmes covering diverse genres and themes.

The programme features 63 Australian films competing for national honours, while 36 international films and 15 documentaries vie for their respective categories. Among the 130 films in competition, audiences will see 37 world premieres and 46 Australian premieres, with an additional five NSW premieres rounding out the programme.

Notable Premieres

Emmy Award-nominated actress Yvonne Strahovski will present her directorial debut “Vlog,” exploring modern motherhood and social media pressure. The film, shot with her own family, offers insights into the challenges of balancing career and family life. The Sydney-raised actress, who graduated from Nepean University before finding success in the US, brings her personal experience to the project.

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Filmmaker Nash Edgerton returns with “Candy Bar,” starring Damon Herriman in a dark comedy. Edgerton, known for “The Square” and “Mr Inbetween,” brings his experience as a writer, director, producer, and stuntman to this latest short film.

The international programme includes “Hearts of Stone” from Belgium, featuring “Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” star Noomi Rapace. The animated work “The Brown Dog,” featuring voices of the late Michael K. Williams and Steve Buscemi, brings together Pulitzer Prize-nominated composer Tyshawn Sorey with Buscemi also serving as Executive Producer.

“Rash,” directed by Sydney-based filmmaker Claudia Osborne, examines grief through the story of two young brothers coping with their mother’s death. The NIDA graduate’s debut brings her theatre experience to the screen.

Kate Walsh stars in “The Dog,” a surreal exploration of mortality directed by Danielle Baynes. The film follows a struggling vet’s encounter with a mysterious sick dog, leading to unexpected revelations.

Beyond the main competition, the festival includes dedicated sessions for young filmmakers through FlickerUp, LGBTQI-themed films in Rainbow Shorts, and family-friendly screenings in FlickerKids. The programme also features relationship-focused films in Love Bites and comedy shorts in Short Laughs.

National Reach

Following its Bondi Beach run, the festival will tour more than 40 venues across Australia until October 2025, bringing short films to audiences nationwide. Festival director Bronwyn Kidd said the selection represents contemporary storytelling from both Australian and international filmmakers, highlighting fresh perspectives in cinema.

Tickets for Flickerfest 2025 are now available through flickerfest.com.au. The festival website provides full programme details and screening schedules for the January 17-26 event at Bondi Pavilion.

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Bondi Beach Tourists Shocked by ‘Gross’ Aussie Habit

Photo: Pexels

Tourists at Bondi Beach are shocked by a common Aussie habit of rinsing sandy feet in public drinking fountains, sparking debates about hygiene and cultural norms.

Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most iconic destinations, has become the centre of a surprising cultural clash as tourists react with shock and disgust to a common local habit. The practice of washing sandy feet in public water fountains, which is considered routine for many Australians, has left some international visitors horrified, sparking online debates about cultural norms and etiquette.

Tourists arriving at Bondi Beach, known for its golden sands and laid-back atmosphere, often leave perplexed by the scene of locals washing off their feet in drinking fountains. To Australians, it is a practical and innocuous custom—a quick way to freshen up after a day spent by the sea. For visitors accustomed to stricter public hygiene standards, however, this behavior may appear unsanitary and improper.

Bondi Beach Tourists Shocked by ‘Gross’ Aussie Habit — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

The controversy shot online fast with many claiming their surprise and frustration as they visited Bondi in the habit. Photos and videos of the practice people rinsing sand from feet in fountains spread wildly across the social media sites and, with mixed reactions both at home and aboard.

Critics argue that public drinking fountains should remain exclusively for hydration purposes, expressing concerns about hygiene and the potential spread of germs. They view the practice as disrespectful and unsanitary, particularly in an area frequented by large numbers of people. For some, the thought of consuming water from a fountain that has been used to clean feet is enough to elicit a strong reaction.

On the other hand, locals and long-time sunbathers support this behavior because it is a simple solution for the inevitable sand that one gets with the enjoyment of Australia’s beaches.

Sand at Bondi Beach – like at many other shore towns – is not so readily available with special outdoor foot-washing stations. Some believe that this behavior forms a reasonable response to how things are in life-by-the-sea, that criticism is overblown.

The cultural gap unravels divergent attitudes that the natives and travelers have about public spaces as well as what they were meant for. For some, coming from countries which are strict with hygiene activities, it is very odd to see someone wash feet in a drinking fountain.

For the Australians, however, living by the beach has had them used to the coastal life where this is normal and reflects the freedom to live like the beachgoers.

Local authorities have yet to address the controversy directly, but the debate raises questions about whether more amenities should be introduced at popular tourist spots like Bondi Beach. Dedicated foot-washing stations could provide a compromise, offering a hygienic and convenient solution for beachgoers while maintaining the cleanliness of public drinking fountains.

The incident is not the first time Bondi Beach has been at the centre of cultural differences. The beach, which attracts millions of visitors each year, often serves as a microcosm of Australia’s diverse and sometimes conflicting values. From debates about topless sunbathing to disputes over littering, Bondi continues to reflect the dynamic interactions between locals and tourists.

As the conversation unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the challenges that arise when different cultural norms intersect in shared spaces. While some see the habit as a practical necessity, others view it as a breach of public etiquette. For now, the sandy-foot controversy remains a topic of lively debate, reflecting the unique and sometimes surprising aspects of Australian beach culture.

Despite the controversy, Bondi Beach remains a must-visit destination for travellers from around the world. Its stunning scenery, vibrant community, and unmistakable charm continue to captivate visitors, even as they navigate the quirks of local customs.

For many, these cultural differences add to the experience, offering a deeper insight into the relaxed and distinctive way of life that defines Australia’s beachside culture.

Published 19-Dec-2024

Shark Nets Out, Drones In: Bondi Beach Overhauls Shark Safety

Photo Credit: Sharkwater

Bondi and Bronte beaches will finally be free of shark nets, a move that reflects growing concerns about the nets’ effectiveness and their harm to marine life, potentially changing how Sydney manages its famous coastline.

Nets Deemed ‘Pointless’ by Critics

*Photo Credit: Jason Iggleton/Drone Shark App*

Critics have long argued that the nets, positioned approximately 300 metres offshore, are outdated and give swimmers a false sense of security.

Standing only six metres high in water, often 10 metres deep, they do little to prevent sharks from swimming over them. Furthermore, they frequently entangle non-target species, including dolphins and critically endangered grey nurse sharks, raising serious concerns about their environmental impact.

Council Favours Modern Shark Mitigation Technology

Instead of relying on nets, Waverley Council plans to focus on newer technologies to ensure swimmer safety. These include drones, SMART drumlines (which allow for the tagging and release of sharks), and tagged listening stations. This decision follows an analysis by Humane Society International (HSI) showing that Bondi Beach has experienced three summers without shark nets catching a single target shark.

Government Consultation Drives Change

The council’s vote directly responds to the NSW Government’s commitment to consult with local communities about shark mitigation strategies. The government has indicated its willingness to consider alternatives to shark nets, and Waverley Council’s submission will be a key part of this process. This shift in approach follows other recent changes, such as the earlier removal of nets to protect endangered sea turtles during their nesting season.

Community Education Key to Success

While acknowledging that shark nets provide a sense of comfort to some, experts stress the importance of educating the public about their limitations. The council and the NSW government aim to inform the community about more effective and environmentally friendly ways to mitigate shark risks.

Shark Expert Highlights Environmental Impact

Dr Leonardo Guida, a shark expert from the Australian Marine Conservation Society, expressed concerns about shark nets’ impact on endangered marine life, particularly grey nurse sharks and sea turtles. He praised Waverley Council for its decision and urged others to follow suit.

DPI Responds to Council Vote

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has stated that while beachgoer safety remains its priority, it is committed to protecting marine life. The DPI highlighted the effectiveness of SMART drumlines in minimising the capture of non-target species and maximising the survival of all animals. It also acknowledged the importance of community feedback in shaping the future of shark mitigation programs.

Other councils across NSW are expected to vote on the use of shark nets in their areas in the coming weeks. The outcome of these votes and Waverley Council’s submission will likely play a significant role in determining the future of shark mitigation strategies in the state.

Published Date 18-December-2024

Bondi Beach Gets a Dose of Christmas Kindness thru Giving Machines

Photo Credit: The Church of Jesus-Christ

Bondi Beach is ready to make a difference this Christmas, as Giving Machines offer a simple and powerful way to support local and global charities at Westfield Bondi Junction.

These high-tech vending machines will be available from 27 November to 27 December, designed to simplify charitable giving.

The Giving Machines offer a unique way for Sydneysiders to support local and global charities, including UNICEF Australia, Foodbank NSW & ACT, GIVIT, Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation, The Smith Family, and CareFlight. By simply selecting a charity and making a donation, individuals can directly contribute to causes they care about.

The initiative has already gained popularity in major cities like Las Vegas, London, and New York and has raised over $50 million globally.

This aims to make charitable giving more accessible and impactful, ensuring that 100% of donations go directly to the chosen charities.

As Christmas approaches, Bondi Beach residents and visitors are encouraged to embrace the spirit of giving and experience the convenience and joy of donating through these innovative Giving Machines.

Published Date 15-November-2024

Bondi Beach Swimmer Has Close Encounter with Venomous Ray

A swimmer at Bondi Beach had a near-miss encounter with a bull ray after unknowingly coming close enough to touch the ray’s tail without realising the potential danger.

The tense moment lasted around seven seconds on Thursday, 7 November. Jason Iggleton, who operated a drone, captured the incident and shared footage online.

The encounter occurred as the swimmer, reportedly without goggles, swam towards the 1.2-metre-wide bull ray, unaware of the creature in his path. Mr Iggleton noted that the swimmer’s blind approach towards the ray left him at risk, especially since bull rays can defend themselves with venomous barbs on their tails if they feel threatened.

However, the ray reacted defensively rather than aggressively, folding its tail to avoid the swimmer. Mr Iggleton described the ray as “more scared than anything,” highlighting the creature’s instinct to retreat rather than lash out.

Bull Rays: Local Icon and Risk

Australian bull rays, often seen in waters around Bondi Beach, are known for their gentle behaviour and are a favourite sight for local divers. However, if they feel threatened, these rays can deliver a painful sting.

The species gained national attention in 2006 when one fatally injured wildlife expert, Steve Irwin, in a separate incident in Queensland. Despite not being endangered, bull ray numbers have reportedly declined in New South Wales waters due to fishing pressures, making these encounters both a rare thrill and a potential hazard.

Local residents and beachgoers are often drawn to Bondi Beach for its diverse marine life. While encounters with rays and other large marine animals aren’t uncommon, they do underscore the importance of beach safety awareness. Some in the community, including divers and environmentalists, have expressed concern over the potential for harm to both people and marine life in these increasingly frequent encounters.

Marine Life Safety and Drone Surveillance

The day of the bull ray encounter was busy for marine sightings at Bondi Beach. Mr Iggleton’s drone also recorded an endangered bull shark swimming close to surfers and a mako shark caught on a drum line, a baited safety device placed by the NSW officials.

While drum lines are designed to deter sharks from beachgoers, they have been controversial. Some scientists argue they may attract sharks closer to shore by baiting them. As an alternative, there have been calls within the community and from environmental groups to use more modern monitoring methods, such as drones and electronic warning systems, to promote safety without impacting marine ecosystems.

Mr Iggleton’s footage, shared through his popular DroneSharkApp social media account, has sparked community discussion on beach safety and the role of technology in monitoring marine life. His video has led many Bondi locals to reflect on the need for caution when interacting with sea life, even in popular swimming spots, and to consider how new technology like drones can help protect both swimmers and marine species.

Published 12-Nov-2024

Bondi Beach Glows as Head On Photo Festival Kicks Off

Photo Credit: Head On Photo/ Facebook

Bondi Beach will be the dazzling backdrop for the launch of the 2024 Head On Photo Festival. The iconic beachside location will transform into a hub of creativity, drawing together photography enthusiasts, artists, and the local community.

The event, which will take place on Saturday, 8 November, at the Bondi Pavilion, will feature a captivating blend of music, photography, and community spirit. Attendees will be treated to a showcase of stunning photographic works from acclaimed international artists and a glimpse into the future of visual storytelling.

A highlight of the evening will be the announcement of the 2024 Head On Photo Awards winners, who will share in a prise pool of $80,000. The awards recognise excellence in photography and celebrate the medium’s power to inspire and provoke.

The festival launch offers attendees a unique opportunity to connect with artists, curators, and fellow photography lovers. The event will also feature live music, delicious food, and captivating visual displays, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience.

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This year marks the 15th anniversary of Head On Photo Festival, and the launch event is a fitting celebration of the festival’s rich history and commitment to showcasing the best in contemporary photography.

Published Date 05-November-2024

Suspicious Fire Guts Popular Bondi Beach Café

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A suspicious fire has devastated a beloved local café in Bondi Beach, Lewis’ Continental Kitchen, forcing the evacuation of residents and prompting a police investigation.

The popular breakfast spot was engulfed in flames during the early hours of Sunday morning, October 20, 2024. Fire and Rescue NSW crews responded to emergency calls at approximately 4:10 AM, arriving to find the Curlewis Street establishment “well alight.”

Multiple fire crews worked to contain and extinguish the blaze, which affected the ground-floor premises. Residents from apartments above the café were safely evacuated, with no injuries reported.

The incident has raised concerns in the beachside community, where Lewis’ Continental Kitchen has been a fixture of the local dining scene. The café, known for its prime location just steps from Sydney’s most famous beach, typically draws crowds of locals and tourists alike.

NSW Police have declared the fire “suspicious” and established a crime scene. A police investigation into the cause of the blaze is now underway.

Published 21-October-2024

Avra in Bondi Beach Achieves $89M in Sales in Eight Days

Photo Credit: Avra Bondi Beach

Avra, a new Bondi Beach apartment development has secured $89 million in off-the-plan sales within eight days of market launch. The 18-unit boutique block located in Curlewis Street has attracted buyers from Dover Heights, Tamarama, and Manly on the northern beaches, with three-bedroom apartments selling between $9 million and $15 million.

The development, named after the Greek goddess of breeze, has already sold half of its units. Three four-bedroom penthouses remain available, ranging from 330sqm to 350sqm and priced from $23 million to $25 million. These penthouses are positioned as superior to the AYA penthouse in Aqualine at 45 Hall Street that sold for approximately $22 million last month.

Located just one block from Bondi Beach, the Curlewis Street development features apartments ranging from 180sqm to 211sqm, all with north-facing orientation.

The ground floor will house retail spaces, including a French restaurant and high-end providores, set to redefine the street with a new luxury precinct.

The apartments showcase premium finishes throughout, with kitchens featuring curved Champagne quartzite countertops and state-of-the-art appliances from Gaggenau, Wolf, Sub-Zero, and Miele.

Each residence includes stone vanities, freestanding stone baths, and infrared saunas. Private atria filled with natural light and landscaping by renowned designer Myles Baldwin enhance the living spaces, complemented by expansive private balconies.

Developed by Clutch and designed by PDB Architects and Woods Bagot, the project’s design draws inspiration from the sculptural forms of waves. The development aims to create a property that matches Bondi Beach’s iconic status while delivering Mediterranean villa luxury. The design incorporates soft curves and flowing shapes, with careful attention paid to every detail of these residences.

The market response indicates buyer confidence in market stabilisation and anticipated interest rate reductions, with current prices secured during the construction phase of the development.

Published 16-October-2024

AI-Powered Lifesaving System Set to Debut at Bondi Beach

Photo Credit: ResQVision

Bondi Beach is set to become the testing ground for ResQVision, a world-first AI-powered lifesaving system. The innovative technology, created by a trio of friends including surf lifesaver Alex Piatek, is poised to revolutionise how we monitor and respond to potential drownings.

ResQVision uses artificial intelligence to analyze real-time video feeds of the ocean, detecting rip currents, distressed swimmers, and large marine life. What sets this system apart is its ability to differentiate between swimmers who are safe and those in urgent need of assistance.

The AI’s sophisticated algorithms process multiple data points simultaneously, combining information about rip currents and ocean animals to make split-second decisions on potential dangers. When a swimmer in distress is identified, particularly if caught in a rip current, the system immediately alerts off-duty rescuers via text message, providing the swimmer’s exact location and a video of the situation.

Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most iconic and busiest beaches, will serve as the initial testing site for ResQvision this summer. Local surf lifesavers will play a crucial role in providing feedback on the system’s performance, helping to refine and improve the technology before a potential nationwide rollout.

According to Surf Life Saving Australia’s 2024 National Coastal Safety Report, coastal drownings have seen a concerning increase. More than half of the 150 coastal drownings in the year to June 2024 occurred at beaches, with rip currents responsible for one in three beach drowning deaths. Alarmingly, 70% of coastal drowning deaths happened more than a kilometre away from a surf lifesaving service.

Alex Piatek, co-creator of ResQVision, emphasised the potential impact of the technology: “There has never been a more opportune time to launch this lifesaving technology in Australia. In 2024, coastal drownings spiked by 22 percent, with after-hours incidents and rip currents being major contributors.”

The system’s ability to monitor beaches continuously, even when lifeguards are off-duty, could prove to be a game-changer in reducing after-hours incidents. It also has the potential to enhance safety at unmanned beaches, addressing a significant gap in current coastal safety measures.

If successful, ResQvision could not only transform beach safety practices across Australia but also have global implications for coastal communities worldwide.

With the trial set to begin, beachgoers at Bondi this summer may find comfort in knowing that along with the watchful eyes of human lifesavers, an AI guardian will be scanning the waves, ready to raise the alarm at the first sign of danger.

Published 14-October-2024