Bondi Beach Archives - Page 7 of 13

Bondi Beach Ranked Among World’s Best, But Do Locals Agree?

Tourists love Bondi Beach, but does it really deserve a spot among the world’s best? Tripadvisor’s latest rankings have sparked a debate among Australians.

Bondi Named One of the World’s Best Beaches, But Locals Aren’t Convinced

Bondi Beach has been listed among the planet’s best 25 beaches in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards, but not everyone is pleased. While the international listing puts the Sydney icon on the world’s most stunning coastal locations, many locals believe it fails to reflect the best of Australia’s coast.

Two Australian Beaches Make the Cut

Bondi came in at number 24 on Tripadvisor’s annual list, with Manly Beach at 15, eight places down from its seventh place ranking in 2024. The world ranking, based on travellers’ ratings and reviews over the past 12 months, featured just two beaches from Sydney.

Tripadvisor has listed Bondi’s golden beach, renowned surf beaches, and scenic coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee as the top reasons for its ranking. Manly, however, was commended for its convenient ferry ride from Circular Quay, patrolled swimming pools, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Locals Divided Over the Rankings

Even with the global recognition, Sydneysiders were shocked to find Bondi and Manly as Australia’s representatives on the list. Although both beaches are undoubtedly iconic, others feel that other less popular destinations are more representative of the country’s natural beauty.

Bondi, though, is a resort area, with large crowds and expensive restaurants that take away from the beach experience, say some. Most locals prefer to visit less crowded beaches like Palm Beach, Freshwater, or Bronte that offer the same view without the crowds.

*Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons/Palm Beach*

Manly’s addition was less argumentative, with its casual charm and appeal, though some still question whether it is better than beaches like Queensland’s Whitehaven Beach or Tasmania’s Wineglass Bay, both longtime favourites on similar lists.

How the World’s Best Beaches Are Chosen

The 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards rely on a mix of millions of traveller reviews over the last year. Tripadvisor takes into account aspects such as water quality, landscape, activities, and overall visitor satisfaction to compile the rankings.

At the helm of this year’s best was Elafonissi Beach in Crete, Greece, because of its pink sand and crystal clear waters. The remaining beaches that joined the top five were Eagle Beach in Aruba, Cable Beach in Broome, and Praia da Falésia in Portugal.

Despite missing out on a top 10 spot, Bondi and Manly’s global recognition reinforces Sydney’s status as a world-class coastal destination—even if not all Australians agree.

Published 12-March-2025

Bondi Beach to Become More Inclusive with Major Accessibility Upgrades

Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most iconic coastal destinations, is set to become more accessible for people with disabilities as part of a $17.1 million investment aimed at improving access to the nation’s beaches.

Read: Bondi Beach Pollution: Sewage System Under Scrutiny Amid Debris Concerns

The funding will help local councils and surf lifesaving clubs install all-terrain wheelchairs, improve beach pathways and extend beach matting. Bondi Beach, a favourite among both locals and tourists, is among the key locations set to benefit, alongside other major destinations like Palm Cove, Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, Sorrento Beach, and Henley Beach.

As one of Australia’s busiest beaches, Bondi attracts millions of visitors each year. The improvements will ensure that people of all abilities can enjoy the sand, surf and vibrant coastal atmosphere.

Shane Hryhorec, founder of Accessible Beaches Australia, welcomed the initiative, calling it a step in the right direction.

Efforts to enhance accessibility are also expanding beyond beaches, with infrastructure projects aiming to improve access to national parks, public spaces, and recreational areas. Additional facilities are also being developed to support individuals with complex needs, ensuring a more inclusive experience across various environments.

Read: Probus Club Opens to Foster Social Connections Among Bondi Beach Retirees and Semi-Retirees

“Through Accessible Australia, we are significantly broadening the types of accessible infrastructure and amenities that will be built across Australia, providing access – for the first time for many – to national parks, beaches and play spaces,” Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said.

“These new facilities will be in addition to Changing Places projects recently announced, as we bolster our efforts to increase inclusion and promote accessible tourism.”

With these upgrades, Bondi Beach is set to reinforce its status as an inclusive destination, allowing more people to experience its world-renowned beauty and energy.

Published 28-February-2025

Bondi Beach Footy Scene Just Got Bigger with GameDay Squad and James Tedesco

Bondi Beach, a hotspot for sun, surf, and Sydney Roosters fans, is now making waves in the world of fantasy footy. Rugby League superstar James Tedesco has thrown his support behind GameDay Squad, an Australian fantasy sports platform changing how fans engage with the game.

With over 500,000 downloads on Google Play and a unique free-to-play model, the platform is drawing in Rugby League enthusiasts like never before.

Tedesco, the Roosters captain and a familiar face around Bondi, believes GameDay Squad brings a real coaching experience to fans. Unlike traditional fantasy leagues that rely on salary caps and weekly drafts, this platform allows users to collect, trade, and manage their teams year-round. He sees it as an opportunity for footy fans to experience the highs and lows of managing a team, much like the real thing.

Fantasy Footy’s Growing Presence in Australia

Fantasy sports are booming in Australia, with participation numbers doubling in the last three years. More than 2.4 million Australians now play, highlighting a shift in how fans connect with their favourite teams and players. GameDay Squad has positioned itself as a leader in this space, offering an accessible and strategic game without the usual pay-to-play restrictions.

Founder Callum Stone emphasised that the game’s free-to-play model makes it inclusive for all fans, allowing them to build a squad and compete at any level. He believes Tedesco is the perfect fit for the platform, given his leadership both on and off the field.

James Tadesco Sydney Roosters — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Sydney Roosters, Bondi Beach, and Community Engagement

Bondi Beach has long been associated with the Sydney Roosters, with many players living, training, or spending time in the area. Tedesco, as the Roosters’ captain, is often seen around Bondi, making him a natural connection between the local community and fantasy footy fans. His endorsement of GameDay Squad strengthens its presence among Rugby League supporters in the Eastern Suburbs and beyond.

As part of the partnership, GameDay Squad is hosting a launch event on Thursday, February 27, in Sydney, giving fans the chance to meet James Tedesco and get an exclusive preview of the 2025 season. With fantasy footy rapidly evolving, this event is expected to draw strong interest from the community.

For fans eager to join, sign-ups are free at www.gamedaysquad.com.au, and tickets for the launch event are available at Humanitix.

Bondi Beach Lifeguard Appeals Sentence Following Domestic Violence Case

Photo Credit: Andrew Reid/Facebook

A well-known Bondi Rescue lifeguard is seeking to appeal his sentence after being found guilty of domestic violence common assault. Andrew Brian Reid, widely recognised as “Reidy” from the hit reality TV series, was sentenced to a 12-month good behaviour bond after an incident involving a woman in January 2024.

In December 2024, Mr Reid was found guilty of placing his hands around a woman’s neck and pushing her. The hearing revealed that there was a heated argument before Mr Reid forcefully held the woman’s neck for up to five seconds.

During a counselling session following the incident, Mr Reid reportedly admitted that he had acted in a fit of alcoholic rage, acknowledging that his actions were inappropriate. His counsellor’s notes in court recorded him saying he is not that kind of man while visibly upset.

Despite avoiding conviction, Mr Reid was placed under a 12-month good behaviour bond and remains subject to a two-year apprehended violence order (AVO).

Courtroom Dispute: Defence vs. Prosecution

Mr Reid’s defence team, led by barrister Margaret Cunneen SC, contested the credibility of the counsellor’s notes, arguing that they were recorded after the session rather than during it. However, the police prosecutor countered that the notes were written shortly after the session and aligned with the complainant’s testimony.

During the trial, Mr Reid defended himself by stating that he had taken the woman’s phone and, as she rushed toward him to retrieve it, he had merely “guided” her toward a bed with a hand on her neck. The prosecution rejected this explanation, maintaining that the victim’s testimony was credible and consistent.

Additional Allegations and Character Witnesses

Mr Reid also faced allegations of:

Biting the woman’s upper arm, leaving visible teeth marks.
Throwing a phone at her leg, causing a gash that required surgical glue.

However, these additional assault occasioning actual bodily harm charges were dismissed due to insufficient evidence proving deliberate intent.

Several of Mr Reid’s colleagues provided character references during the hearing, including former Bondi Rescue star Quinn Darragh and current lifeguard Ryan Clark, who is also a former Home and Away actor and a White Ribbon ambassador against violence towards women.

Mr Clark stated that he remains “an advocate for women’s rights” but did not believe the audio recording of Mr Reid arguing with the woman amounted to domestic violence. However, the magistrate disagreed, citing the “angry, abusive, and aggressive” nature of the recording.

Bondi Beach lifeguard — *Photo Credit: Andrew Reid/Facebook*

Next Steps: Mr Reid’s Legal Appeal

Mr Reid has formally appealed his sentence, with the case set to be mentioned in the NSW District Court in February 2025. His employment status with Waverley Council, which oversees Bondi Beach lifeguards, remains unclear, as the authorities have refused to confirm or comment on his position.

As legal proceedings continue, Mr Reid remains under the two-year AVO, and the outcome of his appeal could determine his future career and public standing.

Published 15-Feb-2025

Dune Rats and Tooheys Revive Live Music at Bondi Beach Pubs

Photo Credit: Kaylob/Instagram

The live music scene in Bondi Beach is getting a much-needed boost as Aussie rockers Dune Rats join forces with Tooheys on Tour. The initiative aims to support struggling pubs and revive Australia’s pub rock culture.

Dune Rats and Tooheys at Bondi Beach pubs — *Photo Credit: Kaylob/Instagram*

For years, Bondi’s pubs have been a launching pad for emerging artists, but rising production costs, security expenses, and booking fees have made hosting live music increasingly difficult. One venue facing these challenges is the Beach Road Hotel, where Dune Rats performed in their early days.

Tooheys on Tour: Supporting Live Music

Tooheys on Tour is a national campaign providing direct support to venues, with Dune Rats leading the effort. The initiative includes a $10,000 donation to Support Act, a charity assisting musicians and industry workers.

Dune Rats also reimagined Tooheys’ classic jingle, performing it at the end of each set as a tribute to Australia’s pub rock heritage. The tour featured three key stops:

25 Jan – Entrance Leagues Club, Bateau Bay
31 Jan – Beach Road Hotel, Bondi Beach
1 Feb – Mona Vale Hotel, Mona Vale

Financial Pressures on Local Venues

Securing a band of Dune Rats’ calibre can cost between $10,000 and $15,000, not including additional expenses like security and sound engineering. Since 2022, over 1,500 live music venues have closed across Australia, leaving 3,550 still operating.

Tooheys on Tour — *Photo Credit: Kaylob/Instagram*

Pubs as a Foundation for Emerging Artists

Small pub gigs remain a vital stepping stone for new bands. Many well-known acts, including Dune Rats, started in small venues before moving to bigger stages. The Mona Vale Hotel has been working to restore regular live performances, recognising their role in community engagement.

As part of Tooheys on Tour, local NSW bands (18+) could audition by posting a cover of the Tooheys jingle on social media. Selected acts performed as opening acts for Dune Rats.

Bondi Beach pubs — *Photo Credit: Kaylob/Instagram*

Future of Tooheys on Tour

With strong community support, Tooheys on Tour has shown the ongoing demand for live music in pubs. If momentum continues, the initiative may expand to include more venues and artists, ensuring that pub rock remains a central part of Australian nightlife.

Published 8-Feb-2025

HOKA Wraps Up Immersive Running Experience at Bondi Beach

Photo Credit: HOKA Australia/Instagram

HOKA’s Cushion House activation at Bondi Beach wrapped up after a successful event at North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club, celebrating the launch of the Bondi 9.

Held from 24–26 January 2025, the immersive experience showcased HOKA’s max-cushion running technology, engaging seasoned runners and newcomers through interactive community activities.

HOKA Bondi Beach — *Photo Credit: Pace Athletic/Instagram*

Interactive Features and Community Activities

The event incorporated several experiential elements that allowed visitors to immerse themselves in the Bondi 9 experience. These included:

Coastal runs each morning led by experienced runners and fitness advocates.
Breathwork sessions, designed to complement running recovery and endurance.
A custom-built cushion walk simulating the soft, buoyant feel of the Bondi 9’s midsole.
A four-hour DJ set each day, providing a lively backdrop for attendees.
A customisation station where visitors could personalise merchandise.
Healthy snacks and drinks from local providers to support post-run recovery.

With an emphasis on community engagement, the event encouraged participation from both seasoned runners and first-time joggers, reinforcing the inclusive nature of the Bondi 9’s design.

HOKA coastal runs — *Photo Credit: Pace Athletic/Instagram*

The Evolution of the Bondi Franchise

HOKA Cushion House Bondi Beach — *Photo Credit: HOKA Australia/Instagram*

The Bondi 9 represents the latest iteration of HOKA’s Bondi series, first introduced in 2011. Known for its lightweight yet highly cushioned construction, the Bondi franchise has become one of the brand’s top-selling models globally.

The development of each new shoe version follows a detailed refinement process, typically taking 18 months to two years to complete. The Bondi 9 incorporates updated foam technology for improved resilience and weight reduction, along with optimised midsole technology to enhance overall performance.

The shoe remains one of the most cushioned models in the HOKA lineup, maintaining its focus on comfort and durability for a wide range of runners.

HOKA new shoes Bondi 9 — *Photo Credit: Pace Athletic/Instagram*

Engagement Beyond the Activation

While the Cushion House event was a temporary installation at Bondi Beach, its impact extended beyond those who attended in person. The Bondi 9 launch was further amplified through social media, fitness communities, and brand engagement initiatives, ensuring the campaign reached a global audience.

The event at Bondi Beach underscored HOKA’s focus on innovation and community-driven engagement. It aligns with its reputation for delivering high-performance running shoes for elite and everyday runners.

Published 31-Jan-2025

Bollard Makeover Backfires on PR Queen Roxy Jacenko

Photo Credit: Roxy Jacenko/ Instagram

PR maven Roxy Jacenko has been fined $6,000 for painting public bollards bright pink in Bondi Beach as part of a marketing campaign.

The eye-catching stunt, which saw five concrete bollards along Ramsgate Avenue transformed into vibrant advertisements for electric bike company Flight Risk, landed Jacenko in hot water with the local council.

Waverley Council issued the fine because the bollards were painted without permission, constituting “development without development consent.” They also noted that the unauthorised advertising and bright pink were inappropriate for the Bondi Beach conservation area.

Jacenko, who recently reopened her PR firm Sweaty Betty, defended her actions, arguing that the bollards were already covered in various markings and graffiti. She believed that painting them a uniform colour was an improvement and jokingly suggested the council should pay her for the service.

However, Waverley Council maintained a zero-tolerance policy for graffiti and unauthorised advertising, emphasising that ratepayers had to foot the bill for restoring the bollards to their original colour.

This incident occurred amidst a threatened train strike in Sydney last year, which Jacenko cleverly leveraged to promote Flight Risk’s electric bikes as a commuting alternative.

Despite personally owning a collection of luxury cars, Jacenko encouraged Sydneysiders to consider the $5,699 bikes as a solution to potential transport disruptions. She even organised a PR stunt where Flight Risk staff offered free rides to commuters on the back of their electric bikes.

Waverley Council has reiterated its commitment to preserving Bondi Beach’s heritage conservation area. They stated that the bollards have since been repainted to their original colour palette, which is more in keeping with the area’s aesthetic.

The council also stressed that any individual or organisation wishing to paint or alter public property must obtain the necessary permits and approvals.

Published Date 25-Jan-2025

How Compact Living is Redefining Bondi Beach Real Estate

A compact space. Photo for representation only. Photo Credit: ROCA Industry

When a 17-square-metre apartment in Bondi Beach sold for $511,000 in late 2023, it reignited discussions around Australia’s housing affordability crisis and the growing trend of micro-apartments. While small in size, these compact living spaces are making a big impact on urban housing markets.

Living Small, Dreaming Big

Located a mere 100 metres from the iconic Bondi Beach shoreline, this micro-apartment represents a contemporary housing option designed for individuals who value location more than space. These compact properties are becoming a sought-after choice for young professionals, first-time homebuyers, and astute investors seeking an economical way into Australia’s pricey real estate market.

Micro Apartment Bondi Beach — *Photo Credit: Ray White Eastern Beaches*

Micro-apartments are designed to maximise every square metre. Featuring multifunctional furniture like foldable beds that convert into desks, compact dining tables that double as workspaces, and smart storage solutions, these units prove that good design can triumph over limited space. Shared communal areas such as gyms, co-working spaces, and rooftop lounges further enhance liveability, creating a sense of community for residents.

The Allure of Bondi Beach

The Bondi property’s high price tag reflects the premium placed on location. Bondi Beach has long been a magnet for renters and buyers drawn to its iconic lifestyle, where surf culture meets urban convenience. For many, the chance to live near one of Australia’s most famous beaches outweighs the constraints of compact living.

Property experts point out that location is a key driver in the appeal of micro-apartments. While traditional lending policies often make it challenging to secure financing for such properties, investors recognise their potential for high rental yields and long-term capital growth.

A Housing Solution or a Stopgap?

Micro-apartments have sparked debate about their role in addressing Australia’s housing challenges. Advocates argue that these spaces offer an innovative response to urbanisation and population growth. As cities like Sydney and Melbourne grapple with housing shortages, compact living has emerged as a practical alternative.

However, critics caution that micro-apartments are not a comprehensive solution. They stress the need for broader strategies to make housing more affordable across all market segments, rather than relying on smaller living spaces to address demand. Many believe that policies should focus on building affordable homes in well-connected areas rather than just accommodating shrinking footprints.

The Future of Compact Living

Micro-apartments are not a new concept, but their resurgence in Australia’s property market reflects shifting priorities. Historic examples, like Melbourne’s 1930s Cairo Flats, demonstrate how good design and prime locations have long made compact living desirable. Today, developers are repurposing older buildings and underutilised spaces, such as former offices, into micro-apartment complexes with modern finishes and shared amenities.

As urban populations grow, micro-apartments are poised to play a more significant role in Australia’s housing landscape. With the population in cities expected to rise significantly by 2050, developers and policymakers must find creative ways to accommodate increasing demand.

While micro-apartments are not a one-size-fits-all solution, they represent a shift towards more sustainable and efficient urban living. For those willing to embrace smaller spaces, these homes offer the chance to live in vibrant, connected communities without breaking the bank.

Published 23-January-2025

Bondi Beach Pollution: Sewage System Under Scrutiny Amid Debris Concerns

Photo Credit: Essa Eldhose/X

Authorities are investigating the presence of debris balls washing ashore at Bondi Beach, raising concerns about potential links to Sydney’s sewage system.

Reports of debris balls washing up on Bondi Beach first emerged in October last year, containing fats, oils, human hair, soap scum, and other waste materials.

Similar incidents were reported on northern beaches recently, prompting further investigation by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

The debris, varying in colour and consistency, has led to speculation regarding its origin and composition. Some experts believe that weather patterns may also play a role in the dispersion of the debris.

Bondi Beach from above — *Photo Credit: Wikipedia*

Investigation Continues

The NSW EPA has expanded its investigation into the cause of the debris balls found along Bondi Beach and other coastal areas. According to Adam Gilligan, EPA Director of Operations, multiple potential sources are being considered, including Sydney Water’s sewage system, stormwater drains, and possible maritime sources such as cruise ships.

Mr Gilligan stated that a technical team is conducting site visits and chemical analysis to determine the origin of the debris. Preliminary test results from recent findings are expected soon.

Expert Insights

Professor Stuart Khan from the University of Sydney noted that Sydney’s sewage treatment primarily involves physical separation, which may leave residual fats and oils in discharged wastewater. He highlighted that the current wastewater treatment process in Sydney differs from those in other developed regions, where secondary treatments are standard.

Mr Khan suggested that Sydney Water should further investigate whether their outfall discharges are contributing to the formation of debris balls on Bondi Beach.

Bondi Beach sewage concerns — *Photo Credit: Essa Eldhose/X*

Next Steps

The EPA is still working with key authorities to identify the cause and viable measures to prevent future accidents. The community is warned to avoid contact with debris and report any new discoveries to local authorities.

As the investigation develops, authorities expect further public updates, and beachgoers are urged to remain vigilant and cooperative.

Published 22-Jan-2025

Four Men Charged in Bondi Beach Arson Attacks

Police have arrested four men in connection with two suspicious fires at Bondi Beach in October last year.

The first fire happened just after 2:00 a.m. on Thursday, 17 October 2024, when two men allegedly poured accelerant under the door of a business on Campbell Parade and set it alight. The fire burned itself out, but the building was significantly damaged. The second fire occurred at around 4:10 a.m. on Sunday, 20 October 2024, at a business on Curlewis Street. This fire caused extensive damage and forced residents to evacuate the building, although no one was injured.

Following an investigation, police arrested a 31-year-old man at a home in Jannali on Friday, 18 October. He was charged with destroying property with fire and drug possession. A second man, aged 37, was arrested at a correctional facility on Thursday, 12 December and charged with destroying property with fire.

In connection with the second fire, police arrested two more men on Tuesday, 14 January 2025. A 40-year-old man was arrested at Riverstone Police Station and charged with damaging property by fire, disguising his face with intent to commit an indictable offence, driving a stolen vehicle, and driving without a licence. A 26-year-old man was arrested at a home in Bardia and charged with being armed with intent to commit an indictable offence.

One of the businesses targeted was Lewis’ Continental Kitchen, a well-known kosher takeaway and catering business on Curlewis Street. This incident has raised concerns within the community about a possible rise in antisemitic attacks in Sydney. Lewis’ Continental Kitchen has been a part of the Bondi community for decades, starting as a catering business in the 1940s and expanding to include a retail shop.

This incident comes at a time when Jewish institutions and synagogues in Australia are facing increased security risks. There has been a rise in antisemitic incidents in 2024, including graffiti, vandalism, and online hate speech.

Police are still investigating the motives of the fires and asking anyone with information to come forward.

Published Date 15-Jan-2025