Waverley Council Archives - Bondi Beach News

Mermaid Artwork Project for Bondi Beach Stalls After Community Pushback

Jan Carmody in 1959 and as one of the mermaids in Bondi Beach. Photo Credit: Waverley Council

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

about the original mermaids

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

Bondi Beach Residents Demand Action on Dangerous E-bikes

Photo Credit: Lime

Discarded e-bikes obstructing footpaths and reckless riding have led to threats of vehicle impounding, following a 350 percent increase in e-bike usage near Bondi Beach from 2021 to 2024.

Community Concerns and Council Response

Residents have expressed increasing frustration over the haphazard parking of shared e-bikes, which obstructs pedestrian access and creates safety hazards, particularly for elderly individuals and those with disabilities. The council reports constant complaints about bikes being carelessly abandoned on footpaths and ridden at dangerous speeds.

In response, Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh has announced a one-month ultimatum for e-bike operators to agree to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the council. This agreement would outline specific e-bike usage and parking rules to restore street order.

Proposed Regulations and Enforcement

The council’s proposed MoU demands that e-bike companies adhere to strict regulations, including Lime, Hello Bike, and Ario. These include limits on the total number of bikes allowed within the Waverley area, designated parking zones, a maximum speed limit of 20km/h, and mandatory helmet use for riders. The council has also stated that operators must relocate any bikes obstructing pedestrian access within two hours of notification.

Failure to comply with these regulations will result in the council impounding the bikes, and operators will face fines of $2750 per non-compliant vehicle. Furthermore, the e-bike companies will be responsible for covering the costs of implementing and enforcing the new agreement.

Parking Trial and State Government Involvement

In addition to the MoU, the council plans to implement a six-month trial of designated e-bike parking areas in high-traffic locations such as Bondi Junction, Bondi Beach, and Bronte Beach, starting in June. Mayor Nemesh has also called on the New South Wales state government to take a more active role in regulating the share bike industry. He suggests a state-run tender process for bike share services, with a portion of the revenue allocated to local councils for infrastructure and enforcement.

A Transport for NSW spokesperson acknowledged the community’s concerns. It stated that the government is currently reviewing regulations for sharing schemes and considering recommendations from a recent parliamentary inquiry into e-scooters, e-bikes, and related mobility options.

Legal Framework and Safety Concerns

Current NSW regulations stipulate that permitted e-bikes have an electric motor and battery that assist riders with pedalling up to 25km/h. Petrol-powered bikes or those with internal combustion engines are illegal. E-bikes are also prohibited from riding on footpaths, and riders must always wear helmets.

Police have the authority to issue fines for violations of these rules. The council’s push for stricter regulations comes amid growing concerns about rider safety, with reports of injuries caused by e-bikes.

Published Date 26-March-2025

New Year’s Eve Music Festival Returns to Bondi Beach

Photo Credit: Pexels

A motion has been approved to bring a New Year’s Eve music festival back to Bondi Beach, reviving a major event not seen since 2014.

Shore Thing’s Legacy and Cancellation

Bondi Beach previously hosted the Shore Thing Festival, a popular New Year’s Eve music event that attracted crowds of up to 15,000. The festival was cancelled in 2014 following sustained complaints from local residents. They claimed the event encouraged antisocial behaviour and disrupted access to the beach, particularly due to temporary security fencing and noise levels.

Past Shore Thing line-ups featured internationally recognised artists including Snoop Dogg, Calvin Harris, Skrillex, Flume, Underworld, The Presets, and David Guetta. One of the festival’s most notable moments was in 1999, when renowned DJ Carl Cox performed a millennium set at Bondi Beach.

Proposal Passed to Relaunch Festival

On March 18, local officials Michelle Stephenson and Will Nemesh submitted a notice of motion to reintroduce a New Year’s Eve music festival at Bondi Beach. The motion passed, and the Council will now begin seeking a partner through an expression of interest process. Support will also be sought from the State and Destination NSW to facilitate the festival’s return.

Ms Stephenson stated the revived event could reconnect the community and help rejuvenate Sydney’s night-time economy. She acknowledged the lessons learned from previous editions and expressed confidence in the council’s ability to manage events with reduced community impact.

Shore Thing — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Pexels*

Timing and Context for the Festival’s Return

The proposal comes amid wider disruption in the Australian festival scene. Several major events, including Splendour in the Grass and Groovin the Moo, will not return in 2025. Smaller festivals such as Souled Out and Esoteric were also cancelled at short notice. The reintroduction of a Bondi Beach NYE festival is seen by some as a timely opportunity to revitalise Sydney’s entertainment landscape.

Community Reactions Mixed

Local response to the announcement has been divided. While some residents previously opposed the event due to safety and access concerns, others—according to Ms Stephenson—feel the area has “lost its vibe” and welcome the return of live music. Mr Nemesh emphasised the festival’s potential to activate public spaces and provide new recreational opportunities for both residents and tourists.

@bondi_lines Sydney nightlife resurgence continues 😍 #bondibeach #nye ♬ original sound – Bondi Lines

Next Steps for Event Planning

Waverley Council will now move to secure a delivery partner and begin formal planning for the event. Details including ticketing, artist line-ups, and security measures are yet to be announced. If plans proceed smoothly, the festival could return as early as New Year’s Eve 2026.

Published 26-Mar-2025

Bondi Junction Marks One Year Since Westfield Tragedy

Photo Credit: Westfield Bondi Junction/Facebook

A year ago, heartbreak spread through Bondi Junction when six lives were lost in a violent attack. Now, the community is quietly coming together to remember.

Bondi Community Remembers Tragedy with Quiet Strength

Bondi Junction is preparing to reflect on the first anniversary of the Westfield Bondi Junction knife attack, where six lives were lost in a shocking act of violence. The community will honour the victims through a week-long public display, bringing people together in memory and healing.

Honouring the Victims

From 10 to 16 April, a tribute will be on display at Oxford Street Mall in Bondi Junction. It will feature photos, heartfelt messages, and images from last year’s candlelight vigil at Bondi Junction. Organised by the NSW Government, Waverley Council and Scentre Group, the display offers a space for quiet remembrance.

*Photo Credit: Westfield Bondi Junction/Facebook*

Welfare support officers will be available on 12 and 13 April for those who need emotional assistance. NSW Health is also offering support services for affected individuals and families.

Community Strength and Support

Waverley Council is aware of the lasting impact of the tragedy on the community. The memorial serves as a chance for locals, workers, and visitors to unite, commemorate those who died, and encourage each other through the healing process.

Scentre Group, Westfield Bondi Junction’s manager, has cooperated with leaders in the community to ensure that the memorial takes place in a secure and dignified atmosphere.

Steps Toward Healing and Safety

Security has been tightened at Westfield since the attack, including the introduction of body-worn cameras for guards and stronger protocols. It is all designed to make shoppers safe as the community pushes on along its path towards healing.

This anniversary today is not just a recollection of the dead, but an expression of the inner strength that infuses Bondi Junction and its residents.

Published 24-March-2025

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

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

Shorter Parking Limits Proposed to Alleviate Bondi Beach Woes

To tackle the perennial issues of traffic congestion and parking shortages near the iconic Bondi Beach, shorter parking limits are being proposed for visitors. While aiming to alleviate the plight of local residents, the move could pose fresh challenges for those seeking a day at the beach.

Waverley Council intends to expand the existing Resident Parking Scheme in the vicinity of Bondi Beach and enforce a two-hour parking restriction for non-residents. Per Mayor Paula Masselos, the proposal aims to “strike a balance between the parking demands of residents and visitors” to Bondi Beach.

Parking issues in this area have long been a contentious topic. Over the past year, Waverley Councillor Leon Goltsman, representing the Bondi ward, has fielded complaints from hundreds of locals regarding on-street parking problems.

Regarding potential solutions, Cr Goltsman acknowledged the diverse range of opinions but stressed the consistent desire of residents to have their voices heard. He also highlighted the challenge posed by Waverley’s status as one of Australia’s most densely populated local government areas, experiencing demand for parking that often surpasses supply, particularly during peak times.

Whilst Waverley Council has a vision of reducing car travel reliance through initiatives like the Bondi Junction Cycleway, which opened in February 2023, Cr. Goltsman expressed reservations. He noted a reduction in public street parking in recent years, with spaces being repurposed for car-sharing zones, parklets, and expanded sidewalks. Although these changes have some advantages, they contribute to the difficulty of finding parking.

Cr Goltsman also acknowledged concerns that altered parking rules might deter lower-income residents from visiting the glamorous Bondi area. He emphasized the importance of maintaining Bondi’s welcoming reputation and considered the visitor experience holistically. He expressed concern that shorter time limits, coupled with the high cost of parking near Bondi Beach, could overshadow an otherwise joyful day at the beach.

Parking around Bondi Beach is notoriously pricey, with some sections charging as much as $10 per hour – exceeding the costs in Sydney’s CBD. Additionally, the privatization of bus services in the Eastern Suburbs has limited public transport accessibility in the region.

Council, along with the NSW Police and Transport for NSW, is currently reviewing the feedback received during the public consultation for its Resident Parking Scheme (RPS), which closed in September 2023.

Published 6-Oct-2023

Volleyball Faces Potential Ban After Complaints in Bondi Beach

Did you know that volleyball might become restricted, or even outright banned across some of Sydney’s most prominent beaches such as Bondi and Tamarama?

Informal games of beach volleyball are currently under review by the Waverley Council after a series of complaints concerning the classic beachside sport.

In most cases, beachgoers would establish informal games by bringing their own balls and equipment. Players must follow an established set of rules imposed by the council, and these rules permit up to three nets and ongoing volleyball games in Bondi beach at any given time.

However, there has been a recent wave of opposition against the sport, spearheaded by a 64-year-old Tamarama resident who has opted to remain anonymous, who claimed that accidents would be inevitable with games such as these.

The leader of the opposition has mentioned their fears that children would end up getting injured over stray balls, and that players were using crown land without paying. They had also stated that balls would go as far as 30 feet if out of control, veering off course and posing a risk to passersby.

Photo credit: CC BY-SA/Dietmar Rabich/Wikimedia Commons

Despite this, there are claims that the opposition is minimal at best, however the Waverley Council has still opted to consult the community on how they should handle the issue at hand. Volleyball is still a beloved beachside activity, and one of the options proposed by the council is changing the maximum number of courts, or modifying the rules to promote safety.

The council will hold consultation until the 17th of May, after which they will evaluate the feedback given and possibly conduct further investigation on the sport and any threats it might pose to other beachgoers and locals.
Those interested in sharing their thoughts and providing their input on the matter are free to do so via the Waverley Council’s new survey.

Mum’s Campaign to Upgrade Bondi Beach Playground Gains $300,000 in Funding

Photo Credit: Talia Golan/Facebook

A mother from Bondi Beach heavily campaigned for Waverley Council to upgrade the Bondi Beach Playground beside the pavilion.

Talia Golan, who frequents the area with her 2-year-old son, asked for the improvements after noticing that most of the equipment are rusty or have missing parts.

Ms Golan said that rusty playground equipment in disrepair may have splinters and shards that could harm the children. The rope holding up the sunshade also needs to be replaced since it’s not tied to a stable and appropriate pole.

The Bondi Beach gated playground also has a section for bigger children. This area needs new pavement as well since the current ground is uneven and has been causing kids to trip or stub their toes.

The gates around the playground are also rusted. There is a boat on the sand that serves a bench but its woodwork has been chipping off.

“This a serious tetanus hazard,” Goldman wrote in her petition addressed to the Waverley Council.

“The current play components aren’t even suitable for ages 1-3yr, (which makes up majority of the kids playing there), as there are no steps for crawling and walking toddler to develop their fine motor skills.”

*Photo Credit:* *Pheng Hong Tan/Google Maps*

Two weeks after Ms Goldman posted her petition, members of the Waverley Council responded to her request. Council Member Gabrielle Upton confirmed that the Council received a $300,000 NSW Government Grant to fix the Bondi Beach gated playground.

“I shared this fantastic news with local mum Talia, Councillors Leon Goltsman, Sally Betts, and Angela Burrill who all know what a difference the funding will make to the well-loved area,” Ms Upton said.

*Photo Credit:* *Gabrielle Upton/Facebook*

According to Ms Golan, the Council has also voted and unanimously agreed to fix the Bondi Beach Playground after the Bondi Pavilion renovation.

The medium-sized Bondi Beach Playground is a popular feature in this recreational spot. Currently, the playground has two normal swings, two baby swings, a hammock swing, climbing rigs for big and small children, a baby slide and a sandpit area with seesaws and stepping stones.