Bondi Beach residents say they’re being left out of the conversation amidst a local plan, originally proposed in 2023, to install new mermaid artwork in Bondi’s South Park. Community consultation shows a lack of local support, with many pointing out that the project lacks meaningful historical connection, would cost too much, and could pose coastal risks.
The original mermaid sculptures. Photo credit: Waverley Library
Community Discontent Surfaces
Waverley Council commissioned three artists to create modern takes on the original Bondi Mermaids, once a beloved landmark on the rocks near Ben Buckler.
The proposed designs include a large replica mermaid by design studio Pink Cactus, to be placed on the Bondi foreshore’s South End.
Proposal from Pink Cactus design studio. Photo Credit: Waverley Council
Other proposals include artwork depicting a mermaid’s tail from Stutchbury and Utzon, and a memorial-themed reflection pond from Georgouras Studio. Detailed plans can be found here.
Mermaid’s tale art installation by Stutchbury and Utzon. Photo Credit: Waverley Council
Memorial-themed reflection pool by Georgouras Studio. Photo Credit: Waverley Council
Public feedback showed most people were unhappy with the options, with many choosing the “least bad” design rather than one they liked. Based on community consultations, no artwork design is really supported by the public.
Locals felt the proposed artworks lacked a connection to Bondi’s history and culture. Some said the new mermaids failed to capture the charm or identity of the originals, which were modelled after real women — champion swimmer Lynette Whillier and Miss Australia Surf 1959 Jan Carmody.
Jan Carmody in 1959 and as one of the mermaids. Photo Credit: Waverley Council
Environmental and Financial Concerns
Residents also raised environmental and financial concerns. They questioned the project’s location near erosion-prone areas and said public funds could be better used elsewhere—especially after the 2024 Bondi Junction tragedy, with some suggesting a memorial instead.
Council documents noted that pushing ahead with the project could harm public trust, given the strong community pushback.
Project’s Future Uncertain
A review is being done on whether to continue or cancel the project. If scrapped, the money may go toward other public art with wider support, such as artwork commemorating the tragic 2024 Westfield Bondi stabbing incident.
An internal Council committee report also pointed out that, “If Council chooses to progress this artwork in the absence of community consensus for it to proceed, it would risk over-extending Council’s allocated spending on public art projects, and would jeopardise the delivery of more recent public art projects prioritised by Council including the Campbell Parade mosaic restoration works, the Westfield tragedy memorial artwork and joint Waverley-Woollahra artwork. “
The original Bondi Mermaids, installed in the 1960s and removed in the ’70s due to storm damage, remain a cherished part of local history. But many feel the current proposal doesn’t do their memory justice.
Published 2-April-2025