Bondi Beach Archives - Bondi Beach News

Bondi Beach Car Parks Fetching Astronomical Prices, No House Required

Bondi Beach is no stranger to high property prices, but the latest trend sees even humble car parks fetching hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Forget sprawling mansions and harbour views; in this exclusive postcode, a simple patch of bitumen with a set of white lines is enough to send buyers into a frenzy.

Leading local agent Ric Serrao, known for his expertise in the Double Bay area, is currently listing three car parks—two garages and one open space—in Bondi Beach and North Bondi. A garage on Warners Avenue is expected to fetch around $300,000, while a single-car space on Curlewis Street could fetch $150,000. Unexpectedly, a garage in Ben Buckler, capable of accommodating three to four vehicles, is available for rent at $1000 per week.

This phenomenon isn’t entirely new. Earlier this year, Serrao was involved in selling an apartment in Bondi Beach. Potential buyers were so desperate for parking that they made separate offers for the garage. One hopeful buyer even offered a cool $1 million for the garage alone, demonstrating just how scarce parking is in the area.

Serrao acknowledges this and recognises the distinct characteristics of this market segment. He noted that while the overall market is mixed, the top end remains strong, driven by more than just a need for parking.

Families living near the beach, particularly those who may have downsized or purchased an apartment with limited parking, are driving this demand. The COVID-19 pandemic further fuelled the desirability of beachside living, with amenities becoming a key factor for buyers.

Serrao highlighted the challenges faced by vendors when considering selling a garage separately. While it might seem lucrative, removing a parking space could devalue the main property or make it harder to sell. In the case of the apartment with the $1 million garage offer, the owners ultimately decided to sell the property as a whole, achieving a final price of $3.75 million.

This trend underscores the extreme demand for property in Sydney’s sought-after beachside suburbs, where even the most basic amenity can command a premium price.

Published Date 07-October-2024

Agent Defends $1 Million Price Tag of Bondi Beach Parking Spot

Photo Credit: AALPHA GROUP

In a bold prediction, real estate agent Ric Serrao defends the eye-watering $1 million price tag attached to a single parking spot at Bondi Beach, claiming its value will double within five years.

**Ric Serrao, Selling Principal and Licensee in Charge at Raine & Horne – Double Bay**
Photo Credit: Instagram / @ric_serrao

The parking space, located in the secure garage of the exclusive 2-4 Notts Avenue address, has garnered significant attention since its listing. Serrao, from Raine and Horne, justified the hefty asking price stating, “What’s a million dollars today, in five years, is going to be $2 million.”

This justification comes as the price for this parking spot stands at more than three times the amount a similar space in the same complex sold for earlier this year. In January, a comparable parking spot was auctioned off for $304,700.

Serrao emphasized the high demand for parking in proximity to Bondi Beach, one of Sydney’s most popular coastal destinations. He recounted a recent sale where a $1 million offer was made solely for a garage attached to a $3.75 million apartment, underlining the premium placed on convenient parking in the area.

“You’d be amazed how common and how much in demand parking close to the beach is and what someone’s prepared to pay,” Serrao explained.

The agent also highlighted the potential for these parking spaces to serve as long-term investments. According to Serrao, a well-located garage in the area could generate rental income of between $250 to $300 per week.

Published 25-September-2024

Bondi Beach Residents Call for Aesthetic Improvements to Concrete Safety Blocks

Concrete bollards installed at Bondi Beach to protect pedestrians are being criticised by locals, who say the structures are an eyesore and are calling for improvements to their appearance.

The bollards, placed along Campbell Parade, were installed as a temporary measure to enhance safety at the beach. These blocks are part of a plan to prevent vehicles from entering pedestrian areas in response to security concerns, including the potential threat of terrorism.

While residents acknowledge the importance of these safety measures, many argue that the large concrete blocks are unappealing and detract from the natural beauty of the iconic beach.

Community Push for Change

Local resident Lenore Kulakauskas said that while she understands the need for the bollards, she believes they could be made more visually appealing. Ms Kulakauskas, along with other community members, is urging the council to consider ways to beautify the blocks.

They suggest using artwork or materials like sandstone or wood to blend the structures into the beach’s natural environment. Several local business owners, including Maurice Terzini of Bondi Icebergs, have echoed these sentiments, expressing support for involving local artists in the effort.

A common concern raised is that the bollards are one of the first things visitors see when arriving at Bondi Beach, and locals believe the current appearance of the blocks gives a negative impression of the area.

Sondra Beram, who owns Bru Coffee Bondi, said that while she understands the need for the bollards, they are “horrible to look at” and suggested involving students from Bondi Beach Public School in the design process as a way to bring some creativity to the structures.

Response and Plans

In response to the community feedback, a spokesperson from Waverley Council confirmed that the bollards were installed as an interim safety measure and are part of a broader management plan for Bondi Beach. The council has acknowledged the complaints and is planning to repaint the blocks in the coming months to match the pastel colours of the Bondi Pavilion.

Longer-term, the council has plans to replace the concrete blocks with permanent structures, such as seating and retaining walls, that will integrate better with the beach’s landscape. These changes will form part of the Bondi Park, Beach, and Pavilion Plan of Management.

The plans aim to maintain safety while addressing the community’s concerns about the temporary bollards’ visual impact. However, many locals are eager for the improvements to happen sooner rather than later, as they believe the current state of the blocks negatively affects both locals and visitors alike.

Published 20-Sept-2024

Story Bridge to Host Mass Nude Art Event, Echoing Bondi Beach Installation

Photo Credit: Instagram / @spencertunick

As a follow-up to his famous Bondi Beach nude photograph, American artist Spencer Tunick is set to create another large-scale mass nude art event — this time on Brisbane’s iconic Story Bridge on October 27, 2024.

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons / MagpieShooter

**The STRIP OFF FOR SKIN CANCER installation at Bondi Beach, November 26, 2022.**
Photo Credit: Instagram / @skincheckchampions

The announcement comes less than two years after Tunick’s headline-grabbing dawn shoot at Bondi Beach, where 2,500 brave souls shed their clothes in the chilly morning air. The Bondi event, which took place in November 2022, saw participants from all walks of life come together to create a living artwork on one of Australia’s most famous beaches.

Photo Credit: Instagram / @spencertunick

Tunick’s upcoming Brisbane installation, titled “RISING TIDE,” aims to celebrate diversity, equity, inclusion, and Brisbane’s LGBTQIA+ community. The event is expected to draw parallels with the Bondi Beach shoot, which also highlighted themes of body positivity and environmental awareness.

Participants in the Brisbane event can expect a similar experience to those who took part in the Bondi installation. Early rising will be essential, as Tunick is known for his pre-dawn shoots to capture the perfect light. The artist’s rapid working style, which he describes as feeling like “there are police behind me trying to arrest me,” ensures that participants aren’t left exposed for long periods.

While the Bondi Beach installation faced initial resistance from local authorities, it ultimately went ahead with overwhelming public support. The Brisbane event appears to have secured full cooperation from local officials, with the Story Bridge set to be closed to traffic for the duration of the shoot.

In addition to the live installation, Tunick will be showcasing his first Australian projected video exhibition from his TIDE series at the Brisbane Powerhouse. This exhibition, running from September 28 to November 10, will offer those who missed the Bondi Beach event a chance to see Tunick’s work in a different medium.

Published 17-September-2024

Bondi Locals Call for Night-Life Revival as Summer Approaches

Photo Credit: Pixabay

As summer approaches, Bondi Beach residents are urging Waverley Council for the revival of the suburb’s once-vibrant night-life scene.

Locals claim that excessive regulations and lack of council support have led to a decline in the area’s after-dark atmosphere, raising concerns that the iconic beachside destination is losing its appeal.

Andy Ruwald, former manager of the popular Bondi bar The Bucket List, expressed his frustration with the current state of affairs. “Bondi has lost its soul,” Ruwald stated, citing “too many rules and regulations” as the reason for his departure to manage venues in Bali. He pointed to The Bucket List’s loss of its prime beachfront location in 2021 as a turning point in Bondi’s night-life decline.

A recent Thursday evening visit to the Bondi Beach promenade revealed the impact of these restrictions. From 6 PM onwards, the area presented a stark contrast to its daytime vibrancy, with empty bar stools, quiet streets, and sparsely populated venues.

Amy Lynch, co-founder of “Bondi Beach Babes,” a group with over 20,000 members, emphasised the need for affordable, laid-back venues where the community can gather and socialise.

“Bondi is an incredible community to live in, but as one of the world’s most famous beaches, we are losing vibrancy,” Lynch remarked.

A recent social media post by Johnny Abbot in the Bondi Local Loop community Facebook page garnered hundreds of comments lamenting the current state of night-life. Suggestions for improvement included food trucks, cocktail stands, and street performances to enliven the area.

Local hospitality workers acknowledged the challenges faced by the industry, citing a tough winter season and the ongoing cost of living crisis as contributing factors. Sam Harris from Bondi Public Bar expressed optimism about a potential resurgence as summer approaches.

Paul Nicolaou, Director of Business Sydney, stressed the importance of a thriving nighttime economy for Sydney’s global city status.

“Venues have difficulty attracting staff, a challenge that can only become more difficult with the cap on international student numbers.

“Late night public transport is essential so that night time economy workers can get to work and, importantly, home again.”

While Waverley Council has taken some steps to address the situation, such as extending trading hours in the Bondi Junction Oxford Street Mall to 3 AM, many locals feel more needs to be done specifically for the beachfront area.

Published 14-September-2024

Crabbe Hole Cafe in Bondi Beach Closes, 17-Year Run Ends Over $10 Entry Fee Controversy

Bondi Beach has lost a beloved landmark. The iconic Crabbe Hole cafe within the Bondi Icebergs Winter Swimming Club has closed its doors after 17 years of serving locals and tourists alike.

*Photo Credit:* *The Crabbe Hole/ Facebook*

The closure comes after the cafe was trapped in a controversial $10 entry fee dispute.

The cafe opened in 2007 and became popular for its stunning oceanfront views and star-studded clientele. Over the years, the Crabbe Hole welcomed celebrities such as Margot Robbie and America Ferrera. However, the cafe’s charm couldn’t overcome a recent change the owner implemented.

Bondi Icebergs Winter Swimming Club introduced a $10 entry fee for all visitors, including those wanting to dine at the cafe.

The move was intended to prevent people from bypassing the fee to access the oceanside pools. However, this change proved to be the cafe’s downfall.

Owner Andrew Crabbe confirmed the closure via social media, expressing his gratitude to loyal customers while lamenting the circumstances that led to the decision.

He stated that the entry fee significantly impacted his business, despite claims from the club that it wouldn’t.

Published Date 13-September-2024

LA Co Unveils Revamped The Village Bondi Beach

Photo Credit: The Village Hostels

Australian hospitality group Leisure Accommodation Collective (LA Co) unveiled the revamped The Village Bondi Beach after a three-month renovation, marking the second of eight properties to undergo extensive refurbishment.

The hostel, located at 19 Lamrock Ave near Bondi Beach, now features redesigned common areas including a private guest courtyard, kitchen, movie room, and co-working spaces. The accommodation capacity has expanded to 158 beds across 55 rooms, with new Beachside Loft Rooms and updated existing rooms.

LA Co CEO Luke Moran emphasised a shift in focus based on guest feedback. “40% of guests said outdoor experiences and wellness were most important, with another 40% prioritising activities to meet new people,” Moran stated. This insight has led to an enhanced program offering, including hosted walks and beachside yoga classes.

The redesign incorporates local artwork, including a mermaid mural by Wollongong artist Bodie Jarman, and adopts a Bondi blue colour palette.

To celebrate the reopening, the hostel is offering free weekend paella cook-ups and weekly yoga classes. The Bondi to Bronte coastal walk will become a permanent activity for guests.

LA Co plans to refurbish its remaining Village properties across Australia over the next year and is expanding its Drifter hotel concept in New Zealand and Australia.

Published 14-August-2024

Bondi Beach Shark Nets Face Removal in New Marine Safety Plan

Photo Credit: Unsplash/Adolfo Felix

Bondi Beach could soon lose its shark nets as NSW considers allowing the removal of the controversial barriers in favour of alternative safety measures.

Plans are underway to take down shark nets one month earlier than usual, on March 31, 2025, to protect migrating sea turtles. This decision is part of a broader initiative to reassess shark mitigation strategies along the NSW coast.

Key Changes

The 2024-25 Shark Management Program introduces several key changes. Shark nets will be removed on March 31 instead of April 30, and they will be inspected every two to three days, with increased drone surveillance. New lighting fixtures will be added near nets to discourage turtles. Local councils may be able to remove nets if they can ensure beachgoer safety.

Recent data has highlighted the impact of shark nets on marine ecosystems. Only 36% of animals caught in nets were released alive between 2023 and 2024. Of 255 marine animals caught, only 15 were target shark species. Alarmingly, 65 endangered animals were caught, including green turtles, bottlenose dolphins, and a humpback whale.

Alternative Safety Measures

While some nets may be removed, other safety measures remain. These include baited SMART drumlines, drone surveillance, listening stations, and community education programs.

“We will be working closely with local governments, SLSNSW and Surfing NSW over this season to ensure the future of this program works for the communities it operates in,” Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty stated.

A NSW government survey revealed potential tourism impacts, with 14% of respondents saying they would reconsider visiting NSW if shark attacks increased. Responsible shark management is estimated to be worth $187 million in net economic benefit.

Recent Incident in Bondi Beach

The news comes following a grim discovery off Bondi Beach in April 2024 when a drone operator spotted a dead dolphin entangled in a shark net about 300 metres offshore.

*Photo Credit: Jason Iggleton/Drone Shark App*

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The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) confirmed the incident, stating that contractors retrieved a 2.15m Bottlenose Dolphin from the Bondi Beach shark net. In accordance with management protocols, the carcass was examined for biological samples before being disposed of at sea.

The incident has sparked renewed interest in alternative safety measures, such as increased drone surveillance, which could replace nets altogether.

Published 2-Aug-2024

The Most Expensive Car Parking Space Sold in Australia is At Bondi Beach

Photo Credit: AALPHA GROUP

The crown jewel of Sydney’s unexpected car park market is a single space on Notts Avenue, Bondi Beach. This sold for an astounding $304,700 on January 31, 2024. The sale makes it to the list of Australia’s most expensive car parking spaces and highlights the premium placed on convenience in the bustling beachside locale.

The scarcity of parking in Bondi Beach is a significant factor. As the suburb has grown in popularity among both residents and visitors, available parking has become increasingly rare. This scarcity, coupled with strict council regulations on new developments, has created a perfect storm for car park investors.

“We are increasingly seeing people [investing in parking spaces] for the lifestyle benefit,” Stolz adds. “Some people in areas like Bondi, for example, might think it’s just worth it getting a park spot near Bondi Beach so they can head down after work and jump in the ocean.”

Investors are also attracted to the relatively low maintenance nature of car park ownership. Unlike traditional property investments, parking spaces require minimal upkeep while still offering the potential for steady rental income or capital appreciation.

The Notts Avenue sale isn’t an isolated incident. Another car park in nearby Bondi Junction on Spring Street sold for $120,000 in March 2021, further cementing the area’s reputation as a hotspot for parking investments.

However, potential investors should note that while these high-profile sales grab headlines, they represent the extreme end of the market. Not all car parks in the area will command such premium prices, and due diligence is crucial when considering such investments.

Published 1-July-2024

Bondi Festival 2024: Celebrating Culture, Community, and Creativity

Photo Credit: Bondi Festival/ Facebook

Bondi Beach once again takes centre stage as the backdrop for the eagerly anticipated Bondi Festival 2024. Returning to the iconic Bondi Pavillion and various venues across its coastal stretch, this year’s festival promises a dynamic blend of arts, culture, and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Under the enthusiastic stewardship of Waverley Mayor Paula Masselos, Bondi Festival 2024 launches with a rich tapestry of events designed to showcase local artists and ignite a spirit of cultural celebration. The festival’s opening salvo features the prestigious Waverley Art Prise at Bondi Pavillion Gallery, reaffirming its pivotal role in the national art calendar.

Week one of the festival sees the world premiere of ‘Proud, Proud Woman: A Ruby Hunter Tribute’, honouring the legacy of the esteemed singer-songwriter Ruby Hunter. This heartfelt tribute brings together luminaries like Dan Sultan and Emily Wurramara, promising a night of soul-stirring performances and musical homage.

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The festivities gain momentum in week two with the return of favourites such as the ‘Giddy Drawing Club’, a whimsical blend of life-drawing and performance art. Theatre enthusiasts are treated to ‘Burnout Paradise’, a poignant exploration of ambition and its consequences, and ‘Blood On The Clocktower: Live’, a rollicking comedy infused with strategic gameplay.

*Photo Credit:* *Bondi Festival/ Facebook*

Highlighting inclusivity and innovation, ‘Queer PowerPoint’ challenges norms with its quirky take on corporate presentations, featuring queer artists from Sydney and beyond. Meanwhile, ‘Werewolves’ plunges participants into a world of mystery and intrigue, where alliances shift and deceit lurks in every shadow.

Week three transforms Bondi into a playground of creativity with events like Ally Morgan’s introspective journey ‘Hymns From My 20s’ and Dance Makers Collective’s communal dance experience, ‘The Bondi Social’. The Bondi Festival Local programme amplifies local talent across satellite venues, underscoring the festival’s commitment to community engagement.

Culminating in the Gould St Party—a spirited street festival uniting locals and visitors alike—the Bondi Festival 2024 promises a finale filled with music, art, and camaraderie. From the vibrant street parties to the serene shores of Bondi Beach, this winter celebration from 5-21 July encapsulates the essence of Bondi’s cultural vibrancy and creative spirit.

Whether skating on the Bondi Vista Ferris wheel or immersing oneself in the diverse array of performances, Bondi Festival 2024 invites all to revel in the magic of Australia’s most iconic beachside community.

Published Date 24-June-2024