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Local Restaurant Guide – 2024

We’ve combed Bronte and Waverley for the best reviewed restaurants in the area where people waxed lyrical about their dining experience and what they love most about it. Here’s our list!

Read: Bronte Beach to See Glass Ban and More Police on Christmas Day

1. Table Manners

About Table Manners
4.6 Google Rating

56-60 Macpherson St, Bronte NSW 2024

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Peter H
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Excellent experience. Particular call-out to sommelier for knowledge and skill. The Moreton Bay bug sandwich and the crispy spaghetti were food highlights.

Raoul K
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The food was nothing short of outstanding. The mussels were a standout: fresh, perfectly cooked, and bursting with flavor. Each bite was a reminder of how simple ingredients, when treated with care, can be absolutely extraordinary. The prawn pasta was equally impressive—Perfectly al dente, and dressed in a sauce that was both rich and balanced, showcasing true culinary craftsmanship. To top it all off, the wine selection was impeccable. Alex’s recommendation paired beautifully with the meal, elevating the entire dining experience to something truly memorable. A perfect evening from start to finish. Highly recommend!

Tom E
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Such a nice, relaxed Sunday lunch, best meal we’ve had out in a long time. Everything was amazing, particularly the scallops starter and Murray Cod main. Didn’t feel rushed once and it was such a pleasant change of pace from other Sydney venues. Staff were lovely, thank you Yasmin and Steve for looking after us!

2. Bronte Road Bistro

About Bronte Road Bistro
4.5 Google Rating

280 Bronte Rd, Waverley NSW 2024

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Wendy M
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Bronte Road Bistro is a hidden local gem. Housed in a beautiful heritage old home, with a garden courtyard that’s perfect for summer dining. We have come here for years. Staff get to know you, then they get to know your name, then they do everything they can to accommodate your dining preferences, and fitting you in during busy periods. AND then they let me do a bougie takeaway of oysters and anchovies. The service is personal and so accommodating. The menu is consistent and consistently good. My partner loves the steak and cheese soufflé, I bounce between sometimes it’s the spatchcock, sometimes it’s two entrees, sometimes it’s a special – and it’s always enjoyable. The wine list is solid. Sophie is service with a smile and gives French authenticity while the rest of the team and their sense of humour always make us laugh.

Alexis N
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
We are a local business and Stew hosted our end of year Christmas Party and it couldn’t have been more magical! The food was amazing, the service was quality, and the atmosphere was incredible! Everyone had an amazing time and it wouldn’t have been as special as it was without Stew’s fabulous vision for the night! We cannot thank you enough!

Anna
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The food is amazing . We ordered spatchcock and fish – it took a while , yet was absolutely worth the wait. Prices are a little high – yet well worth it

3. Lorraine’s Bistro (Robin Hood Hotel)

About Lorraine’s Bistro (Robin Hood Hotel)
4.4 Google Rating

203 Bronte Rd, Waverley NSW 2024

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Fiona E
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Had a wonderful dinner tonight ! The Lamb Ragu Pasta was exceptional- also thank you to the young girl who served us – great service and very welcoming

Lucy C
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lorraines on the top floor is a little gem. Modern glass roof space with great service and wonderful food. Free Purezza sparkling water is a nice touch. Will be back 😍

Andrew
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Great atmosphere & food. Oscar, Sam & Ryan are a credit to the pub & always delivering great service. Can’t fault any of the staff as they are always friendly and hard working. Try Peter’s espresso martini’s they are amazing!

4. Bellagio Cafe

About Bellagio Cafe
4.4 Google Rating

285 Bronte Rd, Waverley NSW 2024

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Leah M
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As a group of five we had a lovely evening. We opted for share plates so we could try different meals together. Service and food were exceptional. I would recommend the Octopus tacos, duck and king oyster mushrooms. Such a great vibe. Cocktails were pretty awesome too

Anita B
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Bellagio is always a first choice for one of my celebrations or everyday. The food is delicious and service helpful & friendly. Food can sometimes take awhile! Thank you for being great

Quentin G
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
We were delighted to see that this prime local venue that has been a breakfast & lunch place for many years was at last open for dinner. The meal was excellent and great value, the atmosphere warm and friendly. Recommend the honey-baked goats cheese salad.

5. Passeggiata

About Passeggiata
4.1 Google Rating

318 Bronte Rd, Waverley NSW 2024

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Natalie C
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Absolutely brilliant! We had the best night and the food was sensational. Amazing service. Nigel is a legend and hilarious! The best host. Tiramispoon was a highlight as were the pastas.

Lisa G
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thoroughly enjoyed the food at this wonderful restaurant on Bronte Road! We had the focaccia, fried zucchini flowers, mozzarella, beef pappardelle, and prawn tagliolini. The pasta and focaccia are made fresh on site, and both were absolutely delicious. I would highly recommend this spot. They also have an upstairs dining area for parties and functions, which is a great bonus.

Read: Funding Secured for Bronte Surf Life Saving Club Modernisation

John R
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The food is classic well presented Italian; the pasta was perfect and the focaccia was even more so! The wine list is a selection of classic Italian varietals. The service was attentive and friendly. The overall experience was excellent and great value.

Bronte Beach to See Glass Ban and More Police on Christmas Day

Photo Credit: aussiechap1/Reddit

Thousands of backpackers who packed Bronte Beach on Christmas Day last year left behind more than just footprints, shattered glass, piles of rubbish and overwhelmed locals have now pushed for firm action to manage the event in 2025.

Read: Calls Grow to End Bronte Beach’s Christmas Chaos

Community Concerns After Last Christmas

On Christmas Day 2024, more than 15,000 mostly young international visitors gathered at Bronte Beach for the popular “Orphan’s Christmas” event. While the tradition is cherished by many travellers, residents and officials reported serious damage and safety concerns. 

Photo Credit: visitbondibeach/Instagram

Broken bottles, vomit and blocked laneways left parts of the suburb unusable, with one alley described as a “mass urinal.” Clean-up crews collected over 15 tonnes of rubbish, and emergency services were heavily stretched. The event cost Waverley Council more than $135,000 in clean-up and enforcement, prompting widespread community frustration.

Council Chooses Tougher Controls

Waverley Council has voted to adopt “Option 3” to manage the 2025 Bronte Beach Christmas event. The plan includes a glass bottle ban, more police and crowd control officers, and alcohol checkpoints, but no fencing or ticketing. It also involves a public awareness campaign and better coordination with emergency and transport services. 

Photo Credit: aussiechap1/Reddit

Council documents labelled last year’s event as “out of control,” citing major safety concerns. The new measures will cost over $220,000 and aim to keep the beach safe while still allowing people to gather.

Mixed Reactions From Locals

Some residents want the Bronte Beach Christmas event scrapped, saying it’s turning the area into a party spot and disrupting local life. During community forums, concerns were raised about families being pushed out by large crowds and festival-like behaviour. 

Photo Credit: visitbondibeach/Instagram

Council has decided not to cancel the event, instead opting for stronger enforcement and public education. Officials say tougher rules may follow if the new measures don’t work.

What to Expect This December

Bronte Beach will see tighter controls on Christmas Day 2025, with a ban on glass bottles and increased police presence to manage alcohol-related risks. Rangers and crowd control teams will monitor the area throughout the day. 

Read: Bronte Beach Summer Crowds Raise Concerns On Clean-Up Costs

Council is also working with NSW Police and rideshare services to manage traffic and keep access routes clear. The event will still go ahead, but officials say the chaos of 2024 will not be repeated. The new measures aim to protect both the local community and holiday visitors.

Published 20-June-2025

Funding Secured for Bronte Surf Life Saving Club Modernisation

Bronte Surf Life Saving Club is set to undergo a significant transformation, with $5 million in funding committed to upgrading its ageing facilities and supporting its vital role in the local community.

Read: Bronte Surf Life Saving Club and Community Facilities Upgrade Planned

The planned investment will help modernise the club’s infrastructure, providing safer and more inclusive spaces for its volunteers, members, and the thousands of beachgoers who visit Bronte each year. Established in 1903, the club is one of Australia’s oldest surf life saving institutions and a central part of life in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.

Bronte Surf Life Saving Club
Photo credit: Bronte Surf Life Saving Club/Google Maps

Local surf life saving representatives said the funding would allow the club to better support its lifesaving operations and community programs. They described the project as a long-awaited step forward that recognises the club’s importance not just for its members but for the broader public who rely on the beach and park facilities.

Club President Basil Scaffidi noted the club’s daily presence on the sand and in the community, saying the upgrade would ensure Bronte SLSC could continue its work for decades to come.

“A big step forward for our club, the beach, and the whole community. It is all systems go, and we will start to roll out the plan in the coming weeks,” the club announced on social media.

Photo credit: Glenn Hargreaves/Google Maps

Waverley Mayor Cr Will Nemesh also welcomed the funding, highlighting the value of the club to local families and visitors and the benefits of upgrading essential community infrastructure.

Read: Off-Duty Heroes Rescue Swimmers from Bronte Beach Rip

The funding is part of a broader initiative to strengthen surf life saving facilities across the region, with similar improvements also planned for neighbouring clubs.

Once complete, the club’s upgrade is expected to enhance safety, accessibility, and community engagement—ensuring that this iconic institution remains a beacon of service and connection on Sydney’s coastline.

Published 23-May-2025

Calls Grow to End Bronte Beach’s Christmas Chaos

Photo Credit: visitbondibeach/Instagram

A Christmas Day party at Bronte Beach saw around 15,000 people, many of them backpackers, pack the sand and parklands, leaving behind broken glass, waste, and frustration among long-time locals.

Read: Tamarama Streets to Slow as Speed and Bike Rules Tighten

Residents Say Enough is Enough

The crowd gathered on December 25 for the informal “Orphan’s Christmas,” popular with young international travellers, mainly from the UK. Locals say the festive mood quickly spiralled, with reports of public urination, fights, vomiting, and rubbish strewn through streets and laneways.

Photo Credit: visitbondibeach/Instagram

At a recent Waverley Council forum, residents said they were fed up with the yearly disruption. Some reported people urinating on fences and fights breaking out near their homes, with one describing a nearby lane as a “mass urinal.”

Council Copes with the Cost

Waverley Council said the party cleanup cost ratepayers over $60,000, with another $75,000 spent on extra police and rangers over summer. Despite efforts, resources were stretched.

Photo Credit: visitbondibeach/Instagram

The council asked the NSW Government to help cover costs, but state officials said Waverley should manage its own events like other councils.

Photo Credit: visitbondibeach/Instagram

Mayor Will Nemesh said the event’s impact was unsustainable and hard to manage, as it isn’t formally organised and spreads via word of mouth and social media.

Locals Call for Stronger Action

Many in the Bronte community want stronger council action this year. Suggestions included more police, street closures, geofencing, or fencing off the park as a dry, ticketed zone.

Photo Credit: visitbondibeach/Instagram

Despite these ideas, the prevailing message from residents was not to manage the party, but to stop it altogether. They argued that the beach and surrounding streets should not have to suffer the same mess and damage year after year.

Divided Views Among Locals

While most supported ending the party, some locals and business owners said it brought energy and income, suggesting better facilities instead of a shutdown.

Read: Bronte Beach Remains Closed Due To Dangerous Easter Swells

Still, the community voice at the recent forum leaned heavily towards change. Residents said it was time for Bronte to reclaim its beach and parks for peaceful family celebrations, not be left to clean up after 15,000 tourists each year.

Published 13-May-2025

Tamarama Streets to Slow as Speed and Bike Rules Tighten

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Tamarama residents will soon see a 40km/h speed limit enforced on local roads and stricter controls on shared e-bikes under Waverley’s new transport safety measures.

Read: Bronte Beach Remains Closed Due To Dangerous Easter Swells

Transport Rules Shift Local Movement in Tamarama

Tamarama is one of several suburbs in Sydney’s east affected by Waverley Council’s recent changes to road and public space regulations. These include the introduction of a 40km/h speed limit and new rules targeting e-bike misuse across the area.

Tamarama e-bike
Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

Slower Speeds for Local Streets

As part of a broader initiative covering the southern half of Waverley, Tamarama’s local roads will be reduced from 50km/h to 40km/h. This follows a community consultation held from 2019 to 2020 and affects areas located south of Bondi Road and Syd Einfeld Drive, extending to sections of Oxford Street.

The changes follow the installation of infrastructure such as kerb extensions, pedestrian crossings and speed humps. Council cited data from Transport for NSW indicating that lower speeds reduce crash severity and shorten braking distances.

Although the consultation drew only 195 responses from a population of 64,000, 75 per cent of those who responded supported the speed reduction. Installation of signage is expected to be completed by mid-June.

E-Bike Rules Address Safety and Obstruction

Waverley Council is also addressing growing complaints about shared e-bikes left strewn on footpaths or operated at unsafe speeds. Under enforcement powers granted by the Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021, the council will begin impounding bikes that block access or present safety concerns.

Bike providers will have three hours to relocate problem bikes before they are impounded. Once impounded, companies have 28 days to retrieve them, subject to fees.

Lime Agrees to Regulation Terms

An agreement has been signed between Waverley Council and operator Lime, placing limits on the number of e-bikes within affected suburbs including Tamarama. The deal also introduces designated parking areas and geo-fenced no-go zones, including pedestrian-heavy and environmentally sensitive locations.

Lime’s bikes will be restricted to a maximum speed of 25km/h, and the company has agreed to fund new parking infrastructure and respond quickly to non-compliant parking.

Other operators such as HelloRide and Ario did not meet the council’s deadline to sign a similar agreement, meaning their bikes may now be subject to removal.

Tamarama transport changes
Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

Local Reactions and Broader Impact

Community response has been mixed. Some residents voiced concerns online that slower speed limits may worsen congestion. Others highlighted e-bike misuse as a more pressing issue, citing safety risks from high-speed riding and blocked footpaths.

Between 2021 and 2024, the use of shared bikes in the area rose by 350 per cent, contributing to increased visibility and concern over how the bikes are managed.

Next Steps in Tamarama

The new speed limit in Tamarama will be fully enforced by mid-June. Lime’s agreement with council begins at the end of June and will run for two years, starting with a six-month trial of designated parking areas. The council is also reviewing speed limits for the northern section of Waverley.

Read: Archaeological Dig to Proceed at Lang Syne Site, Tamarama, Before Redevelopment

Council representatives said these changes aim to improve safety and accessibility in areas like Tamarama, where narrow streets and high pedestrian traffic require closer regulation.

Published 9-May-2025

Bronte Beach Remains Closed Due To Dangerous Easter Swells

Photo Credit: Facebook / Naes Nnylf

Bronte Beach remained closed during the Easter long weekend due to the powerful ocean swells battering New South Wales. The hazardous conditions claimed three lives yesterday, with a fourth person still missing.

Read: Archaeological Dig to Proceed at Lang Syne Site, Tamarama, Before Redevelopment

Bronte Beach was among several across Sydney’s eastern suburbs that were deemed too dangerous for swimming as four-meter waves pounded the coastline.

The closure of Bronte Beach comes at what would typically be one of its busiest periods, with the Easter long weekend coinciding with temperatures reaching 29 degrees across Sydney. Lifeguards maintained a strong presence at the beach, enforcing the closure as dangerous surf conditions persisted.

The powerful swells created particular hazards around Bronte’s famous ocean pool, with waves occasionally breaking over its walls. Coastal walking paths near the beach were also affected by dangerous conditions, with authorities advising visitors to maintain a safe distance from surf-exposed areas.

The dangerous conditions at Bronte reflect the broader situation across Sydney’s eastern beaches, where a 24-year-old man remains missing after being swept away at Little Bay Beach. The multi-agency search operation was suspended as darkness fell yesterday and will resume at first light.

Surf Life Saving NSW has deployed additional personnel to beaches including Bronte, with rescue teams remaining on high alert through the weekend. The Bureau of Meteorology warns the hazardous conditions will persist until Saturday as the deep low-pressure system in the Tasman Sea moves eastward toward New Zealand.

Read: Bronte Beach Summer Crowds Raise Concerns On Clean-Up Costs

Authorities continue to urge the public to stay away from coastal rock platforms and to avoid swimming at unpatrolled locations or closed beaches as the dangerous conditions persist through the Easter holiday period.

Published 18-April-2025

Archaeological Dig to Proceed at Lang Syne Site, Tamarama, Before Redevelopment

Photo Credit: Forbes Global Properties

An archaeological dig will take place at the former Lang Syne site in Tamarama before construction begins on a new residence. This decision followed the discovery of an Aboriginal artefact. 

Read: Bronte Beach Summer Crowds Raise Concerns On Clean-Up Costs

The 1920s bungalow, a prominent feature of Tamarama Point, was demolished in January last year. The site, now cleared, will be developed into a modern home designed by Sydney architect Luigi Rosselli, but only after an extensive excavation process.

A Century of History at Tamarama Headland

The land on which Lang Syne stood was first acquired in 1922 by George Frederick Wolf, a Newtown shoemaker. He was required to build a home valued at at least £600. Two years later, in 1924, Lang Syne was completed, serving as a family home for decades.

In 1959, radio personality Harry Griffiths and his wife, Dimity, purchased the property. The couple owned it for more than 65 years. Mr Griffiths, known for his work in McCackie Mansions, lived there until his passing in 2014. Following Mrs Griffiths’ decision to sell, the property was purchased for $45 million in 2023 by Australian businessman David Droga, setting a Sydney real estate record at the time.

Lang Syne development
Caption: The Lang Syne site was demolished last January 2024.
Photo Credit: Sydney by Simon/Instagram

Waverley Council approved the demolition of the bungalow in January last year, despite concerns from some local residents about its impact on the iconic Bondi to Bronte coastal walkway.

Aboriginal Artefact Sparks Archaeological Investigation

An Aboriginal artefact, identified as a tula adze, was discovered during preparations for the site’s redevelopment. The NSW Land and Environment Court acknowledged the historical significance of the area. City official Tim Horton stated that the site had likely been used by First Nations people for thousands of years.

The tula adze, a unique stone tool originally from Australia’s arid zones, has led to the area being officially designated as Tamarama Point AS01, marking it as a site of potential further archaeological findings.

Architect Luigi Rosselli confirmed that the excavation for the new home will be conducted under the supervision of an archaeologist. He stated that his client, Mr Droga, has embraced the site’s cultural history and supports the careful excavation.

New Home Design Approved After Legal Battle

The development application (DA-187/2024) for the new home was rejected in May last year, citing concerns over its impact on the surrounding landscape and public access to the coastal walkway. Following an appeal to the NSW Land and Environment Court, the project was approved on 28 January 2025.

Lang Syne site
Photo Credit: Forbes Global Properties

The approved design includes a two-storey residence with an integrated car park, basement level, rooftop garden, solar panels, swimming pool, and landscaping. Mr Rosselli described the design as “organic,” with the structure intended to blend with the natural contours of Tamarama Point.

Community Reactions and Next Steps

The demolition of Lang Syne was met with mixed reactions from the local community. While some residents lamented the loss of the century-old home, others were curious about the modern redevelopment set to take its place.

Mr Rosselli shared that one of the Griffiths’ children congratulated him after the court ruling. They acknowledged that while the home held sentimental value, its replacement was inevitable.

Read: Alleged Intimate Image Incident Sparks Arrest at Bronte Beach

With the archaeological dig set to commence, construction will begin only after the excavation is completed. The new residence will become a seasonal home for Droga, who has long admired the site and plans to return to Tamarama each Christmas.

Published 25-Feb-2025

Bronte Beach Summer Crowds Raise Concerns On Clean-Up Costs

Photo Credit: instantmoustache/Reddit

A proposal to seek financial support to help cover the escalating costs of managing large crowds at Bronte Beach during the summer, including the infamous Christmas Day gathering, is being considered. 

Read: Overcrowding and Litter Issues Emerge After Bronte Beach Christmas Event

Rising Costs of Managing Bronte Beach Crowds

Bronte Beach has long been a popular summer hotspot, attracting thousands of beachgoers daily. However, major seasonal events—particularly the Christmas Day celebration—have led to significant challenges for Waverley authorities, which is now calling for state-level assistance to manage the financial burden.

Bronte Beach summer crowds
Photo Credit: Blueys66/Reddit

The most recent Christmas Day gathering saw approximately 15,000 revellers at the beach, marking a significant increase from previous years. The large-scale celebration resulted in substantial amounts of litter being left behind, requiring extensive clean-up efforts. 

Waverley authorities had to deploy additional waste management resources, including extra bins and collection services, pushing the clean-up costs to $60,000.

Beyond waste management, extra funding was needed to ensure public safety, with more lifeguards, rangers, and security personnel on duty. The overall cost of maintaining a police presence throughout the summer season alone reached $75,000, adding to the financial strain on the local officials.

Bronte Beach Christmas crowds
Photo Credit: aussiechap1/Reddit

Community Concerns and Calls for Change

The aftermath of the Christmas Day event has sparked frustration among residents and regular beachgoers, many of whom believe visitors should take greater responsibility for maintaining cleanliness. 

While the local officials has introduced more bins and increased patrols, some argue that stricter enforcement measures or alternative event management strategies should be considered.

Push for State Support

Waverley authorities have highlighted the growing scale of summer crowds and the increasing costs associated with maintaining public safety and cleanliness as reasons for seeking state assistance. Officials believe that managing large-scale public events should not fall solely on local ratepayers.

The issue will be formally raised at an upcoming meeting. The plan is to advocate for financial support from the State to assist with the costs associated with peak summer crowds.

Bronte Beach
Photo Credit: aussiechap1/Reddit

The State’s Response

The State has indicated that local officials are expected to manage their own public spaces, including event-related expenses. Waverley authorities collect substantial revenue from its beaches, including significant income from parking, which is expected to contribute to maintenance and management costs.

Despite this position, local officials argue that the sheer scale of summer beach crowds, combined with rising costs for security, waste management, and public safety, makes additional support necessary. 

Read: Alleged Intimate Image Incident Sparks Arrest at Bronte Beach

As discussions progress, Waverley officials will continue exploring ways to balance visitor demand with sustainable resource management, such as crowd restrictions and glass bans, ensuring that Bronte Beach remains a safe and enjoyable destination throughout the summer.

Published 20-Feb-2025

Alleged Intimate Image Incident Sparks Arrest at Bronte Beach

Photo Credit: Pexels


A 63-year-old man has been arrested at Bronte Beach after allegedly recording intimate images without consent and engaging in offensive behaviour. Police responded to reports from beachgoers and detained the individual.

Read: Overcrowding and Litter Issues Emerge After Bronte Beach Christmas Event

Bronte Beach is a popular Sydney destination that attracts large crowds, especially on public holidays. With growing public safety concerns, authorities have increased vigilance through initiatives like Operation Australia Day.

Bronte Beach arrest
Photo Credit: Paul Bronte William/Facebook

Incident Details

Police arrived at Bronte Beach following reports of inappropriate behaviour and arrested a 63-year-old man, later identified as Kamal Arora. 

He was taken to Waverley Police Station and charged with three counts of intentionally recording intimate images without consent and three counts of offensive behaviour in a public place. Mr Arora was refused bail and is scheduled to appear before Parramatta Local Court.

Police Presence and Public Response

NSW Police conducted high-visibility operations across Sydney’s beaches, including Bronte Beach, as part of Operation Australia Day. The initiative aimed to curb anti-social behaviour and ensure public safety, with specialist units such as the Riot Squad and Water Police assisting local officers. 

Several arrests were made, including those related to knife and assault offences. Authorities have urged beachgoers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Bronte Beach arrest
Photo Credit: Pexels

Public discussion on social media has presented varied perspectives on the incident. Some have questioned the focus on individual actions, citing the widespread presence of surveillance cameras in public spaces. 

Others stressed the importance of respectful behaviour in shared areas and the need for personal accountability. Some believe such incidents have been ongoing but often overlooked, potentially making them more common than realised. Concerns about retribution have also been raised as a possible reason for underreporting.

Read: Bronte Duo Recognised: ReLove Founders Nominated for NSW Australian of the Year

The arrest highlights the importance of law enforcement and community vigilance in maintaining public safety. Police are expected to provide further updates following the court proceedings.

Published 27-Jan-2025

Overcrowding and Litter Issues Emerge After Bronte Beach Christmas Event

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

Christmas Day celebrations in Bronte Beach drew large crowds, leading to discussions about event management and environmental concerns following reports of litter and overcrowding.

Read: Bronte Duo Recognised: ReLove Founders Nominated for NSW Australian of the Year

Bronte Beach has been a favourite spot for festive celebrations, attracting locals and visitors alike. This year’s Christmas Day event saw around 15,000 attendees, far exceeding expectations and putting strain on the facilities. City authorities had prepared by adding 250 extra bins and increasing police patrols, but the efforts were overshadowed by the volume of waste left behind.

Rubbish, including broken glass and packaging, littered the beach and nearby parks. Clean-up efforts extended well into the night, with Waverley city officials, like Will Nemesh, stepping in to help. Mr Nemesh said it is truly disappointing that despite their efforts, the scale of the mess raised questions about whether current measures are enough to handle such large gatherings.

Residents Share Concerns Over Litter and Overcrowding

Local residents have expressed frustration with the aftermath. Some described the scene as overwhelming and criticised the lack of responsibility from attendees. Others pointed out that cleaning crews and bins were overwhelmed by the sheer size of the crowd.

Lifeguards also reported a significant uptick in beachgoers. Lifeguard Anthony “Harries” Carroll described it as the busiest day he’d ever seen at Bronte Beach, highlighting the challenges of managing such events.

Looking at Solutions

In response to these concerns, city officials are considering new strategies for managing future celebrations. These include introducing crowd limits, alcohol bans, and restricting glass containers at the beach. Officials have acknowledged the need to strike a balance between maintaining the beach’s accessibility and ensuring the safety and cleanliness of the area.

Some local business owners have proposed alternative approaches, suggesting the event be treated more like a festival, with increased resources such as cleaners and security personnel. “They should plan for it and make it work, instead of clamping down,” David Martin, a cafe owner, commented.

Managing Popular Beaches During Peak Seasons

The situation at Bronte Beach highlights the ongoing challenges of managing popular public spaces during peak periods. Large gatherings require significant resources, and officials are exploring potential funding options, such as entry fees, to cover costs associated with maintenance and clean-up.

Bronte Beach Christmas Day
Photo Credit: NSW Gov/Bronte Beach and Baths

City authorities plan to review current policies and consult with local stakeholders to determine the best way forward. While immediate changes have not been confirmed, existing initiatives such as the “Summer Safe” program will continue to address crowd management and safety during the summer season with more police deployed.

Read: Bluebottle Invasion Hits Bronte Beach

As the discussions unfold, Bronte Beach’s Christmas Day gathering provides valuable insights into the complexities of managing shared spaces while preserving their appeal and accessibility.

Published 27-Dec-2024