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Protect Yourself from Bluebottle Jellyfish Stings During Your Bronte Beach Visit

Photo credit: Maurice van Creij/ Wikimedia Commons

Visiting any Sydney beach is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but there’s one more thing to be cautious about: bluebottle jellyfish stings.

Earlier, authorities warned the public after thousands of bluebottle jellyfish have been spotted on Sydney’s beaches, including Maroubra and Bronte.

While they don’t kill, they do sting and the sting really hurts. According to ClimateWatch, a bluebottle can deliver a painful sting if touched – either in the water or when washed up on the beach. It is advisable never to touch one with bare skin or enter the water if they are present.

Do note that most bluebottles hang out right at the shore. But there are a few things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones from their painful sting, and here are they:

Wear protective clothing

An example of stinger suit (Photo credit: ecostinger.com)

One of the simplest things you can do is wear a protective suit. There are different kinds of protective suits, but for jellyfish sting protection, the most recommended type is a stinger suit.

A stinger suit is a full-body suit especially designed to protect you from stingers, such as bluebottles and Irukandji. They are made using nylon or spandex.

Compared to lycra suits, they are slightly thicker and usually come with socks, mittens and hoods for maximum protection. Another plus- a stinger suit can keep your skin safe from intense sunlight.

Be informed about current water conditions

It helps to get information from the local health department and lifeguards about the current conditions of Bronte Beach. In Australia, bluebottles are more common on exposed ocean beaches after strong onshore north easterly winds wash them ashore and are rarely found in sheltered waters.

Avoid heading to the beach during jellyfish season

Bluebottles are more common during summer months on the eastern coast of Australia. It helps to be aware of the different types and sizes of jellyfish. As the name suggests, bluebottles are pear-shaped, like a bottle and have a translucent blue colour. They have a wrinkled top which might be tinged with green or pink. In terms of size, the float is 2 to 15 cm long, and its tentacles can be up to 10 metres long.

You can also download The Jellyfish App to identify and learn about the different species of jellyfish. Each entry contains common and scientific names, a photo, description, seasonality, locality, toxicity, sting treatment, and other notes.

What to Do If Stung by Bluebottle Jellyfish?

The common signs of jellyfish stings include burning, prickling, stinging pain. If stung by a jellyfish, you will see a “print” of the tentacles’ contact with your skin that looks red, brown or purplish. Swelling is also a common symptom of jellyfish sting.

The best treatment for bluebottle jellyfish sting is immersing the affected area in hot water at a temperature you can comfortably tolerate.

“Studies have shown that 40 degrees Celsius will produce relief after 10 minutes. The heat is important as it kills the protein in the venom,” The Australian Museum noted.

Contrary to myth, you shouldn’t pee on a jellyfish sting. It may even worsen the sting or could cause the stinging cells to release even more venom. Washing off the tentacles with seawater is a better option rather than peeing on the stung area.

If symptoms persist, it’s recommended to call triple zero to get the right emergency service to help you.

Originally published as “Visiting Bronte Beach? Here’s How To Stay Safe From Bluebottle Jellyfish Stings”

Exploring Tamarama Beach: A Journey Through Its Rich History

Tamarama Park has significantly more to offer the Bronte community than gorgeous views and beachside access. The area is rich with historical significance. Here’s a quick look at the history of Tamarama Park.

Prehistoric Tamarama

Tamarama received its name in the early 19th century. Is it widely believed that ‘Tamarama’ derives from the aboriginal name ‘Gamma Gamma’, which roughly translates to ‘storm’. Its prime location by the beach surrounded by rock shelters made it an ideal location for indigenous occupation.

Evidence of prehistoric settlers can be seen in the 2,000-year old engravings along the coastal walk depicting marine creatures, as well as deposits filled with the remains of ancient fireplaces and discarded shellfish shells. Because of these findings, an undisclosed chunk of Tamarama has been declared a site of archaeological significance by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Rock shelters and ocean access made Tamarama a prime area for prehistoric settlers.
Photo credit: wyncliffe/Flickr

Sydney’s First Coastal Amusement Park

The Bondi Aquarium was the first of Sydney’s coastal amusement parks, opening in 1887 before exchanging ownership and undergoing a series of revamps, renamings, and rebrandings. The chief attractions at the Tamarama amusement park were the rides, the vaudeville acts, and the aquarium creatures on display.

In 1906, the amusement park was transformed into Wonderland City which remained in operation until 1911, shutting down due to a decline in the public’s interest, not to mention expressions of discontent over the sheer scale of the park giving the community less access to the beach and the ocean. Wonderland City was then purchased by the New South Wales Government, and its site was demolished to make way for what is now known as Tamarama Park.

Wonderland City, 1908
Photo credit: Aussie-mobs/Flickr

Tamarama Today

In memory of Wonderland Park, Tamarama established Wonderland Avenue, a residential area a short walk away from Tamarama Park. Given the beach’s busy nature, Tamarama tends to attract all sorts of visitors from various walks of life. The park has been jokingly referred to as “Glamarama” because of the frequent sightings of celebrities and other A-listers in the area.

Tamarama Park now serves as a community hub within the suburb, acting as a place where residents can walk their dogs, go on jogs and exercise, or simply take things slow with a leisurely stroll or a comfortable picnic in the park’s open space.

Originally published as “A Glimpse of the Rich History of Tamarama Beach”

NRL Legend Andrew Johns Allegedly Stalked at Bronte Beach, Man Charged

NRL legend Andrew Johns was allegedly stalked by a 27-year-old man while surfing at Bronte Beach and subsequently in his local suburb of Bronte, leading to the man’s arrest and charge by NSW Police.

Mr Johns, 49, first encountered the alleged stalker on 29 March 2024 while surfing at Bronte Beach in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. Police reports state that the man followed Johns into the water and stared at him for an extended period.

After Mr Johns left the beach and returned home, he noticed the same man pacing outside on the footpath. The following day, the man allegedly approached Johns at a local café and continued to stare at him.

Concerned for his safety, Mr Johns contacted the NSW Police, who arrested the 27-year-old man on 31 March. The man was charged with one count of stalking and initially refused bail.

After a court appearance on 1 April at the Parramatta Local Court, where he was granted bail, further complications arose when police could not verify his Bondi address, leading to a re-arrest for breach of bail conditions.

Legal Proceedings and Court Orders

After discovering the falsity of the Bondi address, police re-arrested the man on 2 April. A magistrate at Waverley Local Court deemed that a breach of bail had occurred, remanding the man in custody. The court postponed the man’s future court dates for the stalking charges pending a mental health assessment.

In addition to the charges, the police have applied for an apprehended personal violence order (APVO) for Mr Johns’ protection. The conditions of the APVO, which the alleged stalker faced in court, include prohibitions against assaulting, threatening, harassing, or contacting Mr Johns.

Despite the ongoing legal proceedings and the personal distress caused by the alleged stalking, Andrew Johns has maintained his public role as a commentator for Channel 9. His appearance on the network’s NRL coverage has continued without disruption.

Published 16-April-2024

Heroic Rescue at Bronte Beach: A Community’s Fight Against a Deadly Rip Current

Photo Credit: Serena Woodward/Unsplash

A seemingly calm Saturday evening in Bronte Beach transformed into a desperate struggle for survival. Four swimmers, caught in the grip of a fierce rip current, found themselves fighting against the powerful forces of nature.

The drama unfolded around 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, 13 January 2024. What started as a peaceful day for beachgoers quickly escalated into a life-threatening situation. The swimmers, unable to overcome the strong current, were seen struggling in the water.

A lifeguard, officially off duty but ever vigilant, noticed the distressing scene. Alongside him, local surfers, well-versed in the ocean’s temperaments, did not hesitate. They plunged into the water, battling the fierce current to reach the struggling swimmers.

The rescue was fraught with challenges. Battling the rip current required strength, skill, and determination. The rescuers worked in unison, each move critical in ensuring the safety of the swimmers.

Their efforts were not in vain. The swimmers, exhausted but alive, were brought back to the safety of the shore. Emergency services, which had been called to the scene, provided immediate medical assistance. The swimmers were then transported to the hospital, where they began their recovery.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of rip currents.

Rip Current Bronte Beach — Photo Credit: Anders Marlowe/Unsplash

A rip current, often called a rip tide, is a strong, localised, and narrow current of water which moves directly away from the shore, cutting through the lines of breaking waves. These currents can be hazardous to swimmers who get caught in them because they can drag swimmers away from the shore.

To escape a rip current, it’s important not to swim against it, as this can lead to exhaustion. Instead, try to remain calm and float or tread water to conserve energy. Signal for help if you can.

The key is to swim parallel to the shore to escape the current’s pull. Once out of the current, swim at an angle away from the current and towards the shore. Remember, rip currents are typically narrow, so swimming parallel to the shore helps you exit the current more quickly.

Meanwhile, beachgoers are advised to stay alert, swim in patrolled areas, and understand how to safely extricate themselves from a rip current: by swimming parallel to the shore and conservatively conserving energy until they can safely reach the beach.

Published 15-Jan-2024

Residents vs Businesses Over ‘Orphan’s Christmas’ Party

Photo Credit: Facebook / Ricardo Larriera

Residents of Bronte are at odds with businesses following a contentious ‘Orphan’s Christmas’ Christmas Day celebration that drew a crowd of around 10,000 to Bronte Beach.

The event left nearby streets strewn with litter, sparking outrage among residents. However, café owners argue that with better management, such gatherings could significantly bolster local businesses.

Some café proprietors expressed disappointment, stating that Christmas Day used to be a peak period, generating substantial revenue.

Dave Martin, owner of the Coogee Courtyard café, urged a change in mindset, advocating for an embrace of international visitors rather than alienating them.

**Dave Martin, owner of Coogee Courtyard**
Photo Credit: Instagram / @laspiaggiacoogee

Waverley Mayor Paula Masselos acknowledged residents’ frustration over the disrespect shown towards the community space.

**Waverley Mayor Paula Masselos**
Photo Credit: Waverley Council

The council responded by increasing bins and deploying extra staff for cleanup. Yet concerns persist about logistical challenges, including the lack of adequate facilities and regulations on alcohol consumption.

In anticipation of New Year’s Eve, Masselos emphasised a zero-tolerance policy for public alcohol consumption and announced heightened staffing levels, including police, rangers, and beach ambassadors.

However, exploring the feasibility of hosting ticketed events at Bronte Park posed challenges due to the area’s layout and associated costs.

The clash highlights contrasting viewpoints within the community regarding events like the Bronte Beach Christmas gathering.

While some stress the economic benefits and call for inclusivity, others emphasise responsible conduct and effective management of public spaces.

The upcoming New Year’s celebration raises concerns, prompting local authorities to bolster measures for maintaining order and safety.

The community faces the challenging task of balancing economic opportunities with the need to preserve the area’s integrity.

The debate continues as Bronte residents grapple with divergent opinions on managing public events while maintaining the sanctity of their beloved beachside locale.

Published 4-January-2024

Off-Duty Heroes Rescue Swimmers from Bronte Beach Rip

Photo Credit: SuppliedSydney.com

Off-duty lifesavers and surfers sprung into action at Bronte Beach as four swimmers were caught in the dangerous south Bronte rip on Tuesday evening, December 19, 2023.

Responding swiftly to the urgent call, members of the public and Bronte SLSC volunteers retrieved rescue boards before rushing to aid the imperilled swimmers.

Paramedics assessed the individuals involved, confirming they didn’t require hospitalisation. Fortunately, a fifth person caught in the rip managed a self-rescue.

James Caterson, SLS NSW Sydney duty officer, emphasised the heightened danger due to the increasing number of people in distress.

The “Bondi local” Instagram page expressed gratitude to the rescuers, acknowledging their bravery in ensuring a fortunate outcome.

The south Bronte rip, notorious for its hazards, directs towards the ocean baths and has a history of posing significant threats.

This incident underscores the importance of beach safety awareness in Bronte, highlighting the valour and quick thinking of those who risked their lives to ensure the safety of others.

Published 29-December-2023

Waverley Council Completes Streetscape Upgrade at Bronte Intersection

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Waverley Council’s streetscape upgrade works at the intersection of Macpherson Street and St Thomas Street in Bronte have been completed marking a significant milestone for the community.

These works aim to improve safety for pedestrians and all other road users in the busy neighbourhood café strip. The project, funded primarily by Transport for NSW’s Get NSW Active Program 2022/2023, focuses on creating safe, easy, and enjoyable walking and cycling trips. The upgrade includes several noteworthy highlights that enhance the overall streetscape and pedestrian experience.

The improvements include the transformation of the pedestrian crossing on MacPherson Street, elevating it into a raised pedestrian crossing. Additionally, the extension of the kerb on St Thomas Street makes crossing the road more accessible and convenient for pedestrians.

The project also included new garden beds, adding a touch of natural beauty to the area, and creating a more pleasant and inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

Furthermore, the project addresses important infrastructure concerns by repairing stormwater infrastructure. This vital aspect ensures the long-term functionality and resilience of the upgraded streetscape, providing effective drainage and minimizing the risk of flooding.

Recognizing the importance of future lighting improvements, the upgrade has also made provisions to accommodate these enhancements. Well-lit streets create a safer environment, particularly during nighttime hours, and further promote pedestrian and road user safety.

Mayor Paula Masselos of Waverley passionately underscored the Council’s unwavering dedication to fulfilling the community’s aspirations and fostering Waverley as an exceptional hub for living, working, and conducting business.

With thousands of people passing through this intersection daily on their way to Bronte Beach and Waverley Cemetery, the upgraded streetscape ensures their safety and enhances the overall experience.

Parliamentary Secretary for Transport and Member for Coogee, Dr Marjorie O’Neill, acknowledged the significance of the upgrade in facilitating convenient pedestrian movement.

She said that the safer and more accessible streetscape would alleviate parking challenges, encouraging community members to walk to and from Bronte’s high street.

“The new garden beds and stormwater improvements will also make McPherson Street a nicer place to sit outside and have a coffee,” Dr O’Neill said.

“It is fantastic to see these works delivered with funding from the NSW Government, which is committed to delivering the infrastructure that will make our communities safer and easier to walk in.”

Published 10-July-2023

Locale: Bronte Cafe Lives Up on Mission to Stick to Local

Photo Credit: Locale/Google Maps

The dynamic pair of Nick Bardetta and Ash Quigley-Bardetta, who ran Pilgrim at a stunning beachfront spot in Bronte for two years, have transformed their old cafe into Locale, a casual and family-friendly eatery where visitors can enjoy completely locally-sourced food options.

In replacing Pilgrims, the Bardettas decided to overhaul the menu for Locale and go with a simplified list, where every food comes from around the area. For instance, Locale uses meat supplied by Bronte’s Lucas Meats and gets the produce from the Flemington markets. The pastries are prepared by Luxe Woollahra, whilst the specialty coffee and other drinks are also certified local from Pablo and Rusty’s.

Chef Kevin Chung refined the menu to reflect Bronte’s laid-back vibe with options like a filling breakfast burrito (with avocado, bacon, roasted tomatoes, halloumi, mushrooms, hummus and eggs), a light but still flavourful buttermilk pancakes, poke bowls, fried chicken burger topped with Swiss cheese, and prawn linguine.

As a family based in Bronte for many generations, the couple wanted to stick to Locale’s mission to support other Bronte-based businesses and uphold its strong community ties to give what the locals want.

To match the quality and freshness of the food and drinks, Locale’s new sun-drenched interior — with large open windows, clean white tables, wood benches and woven chairs — deliver a chic and comfortable atmosphere. Here, diners can enjoy a hearty meal right after swimming in the beach and getting sand on their feet.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Locale Bronte (@localebronte)

Follow Locale on Instagram for updates or visit their official site for opening hours, order delivery and pick-up.

The best bacon n egg roll I’ve ever had! And amazingly good coffee. Friendly, warm and fun staff. Could use cushions on their bench seats 🙂
Olivia Miller

“Located just minutes away from the Bronte beach. Staff was kind, place was spacious and inviting. I loved the decor and atmosphere. Menu includes special items that you don’t normally find in other counterparts. We ordered the breakfast burrito and breakfast tacos, they were both wonderful, full of flavours, great portion sizes. Coffee by Pablo and rusty was amazing. One of my favourite sydney cafes The only critic is everything is done via your phone e.g., ordering, making the whole dining experience ‘cold’ and odd. We felt uneasy not getting the chance to saying thanks to the team as we left.”
Joyce Lau

“Best vanilla milkshake in Sydney. Meine Tochter loves it and asks regularly to visit this friendly local cafe in Bronte. The super strong iced latte is a crowd pleaser too with 4 shots! Staff are friendly, fast and efficient.”
Jean-Paul Buhagiar

Published 1-April-2023

Investigation Underway Following Reports Of Dog Baiting At Marks Park

An investigation is currently underway at Marks Park in Tamarama, following reports of suspected dog baiting in the area.

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

Waverley Council, who already deployed rangers to patrol the park, started the inquiry after three dogs died within hours of falling ill in separate incidents after walking at Marks Park in February 2023.

“At this point, we have not been able to obtain information about the type of suspected baiting that has been reported, but our inquiries are continuing,” Waverley Council stated.

Photo credit: Hound Health Bondi – Hydrotherapy & Wellness Clinic

There’s signage put up in the area to warn dog walkers about the recent incident. Council also asked pet owners to stay vigilant when exercising their dogs and monitor their dogs for any signs of illness.

“If Council is able to obtain a sample of the suspected bait, then we can have it analysed to establish its contents and report it to police and the RSPCA.”

Residents took to social media to share their experiences about the suspected cases of dog poisoning at the popular cliff top park.

In an Instagram story, one local shared that a friend’s dog passed away just a few hours after visiting the park. The dog was young and healthy so the owner was clueless about the exact cause of her dog’s death.

Another puppy who visited the park also died just a few days after the first incident happened. It was confirmed that the young dog was poisoned but the owners did not have an idea what caused it.

Dog-baiting involves setting poison baits for dogs in an appealing treat. The initial symptoms of poisoning in dogs include vomiting, agitation, and diarrhea.

“Dog-baiting is not a common problem in Waverley but is devastating when it does occur,” Council stated.

Meanwhile, Council said they will be posting alerts on social media and will continue to patrol the park.

Read: Family, Friends Mourn Bronte Teacher Killed In Nepal Plane Crash

Dogs are permitted off-leash in Marks Park between 4.30 p.m. and 8.30 a.m. daily, however, owners may wish to keep their dogs on-leash if they have concerns.

Family, Friends Mourn Bronte Teacher Killed In Nepal Plane Crash

Family and friends are mourning the loss of Myron Love, a Bronte local and teacher at Bronte Public School, who was identified as one of the victims of the deadly Nepal plane crash on Sunday, 15 January 2023.

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

The 29-year-old teacher was travelling through Asia when he boarded the ATR 72 Yeti airlines flight in Kathmandu. Aside from being a teacher, he was well known for being an avid traveller and cycling enthusiast.

Authorities confirmed there were no survivors at the Nepal plane crash, leaving 72 dead when it crashed whilst attempting to land at a new airport in Pokhara. The crash was dubbed as the deadliest aviation accident in Nepal in 30 years.

Photo credit: Old Andreans Association/Facebook

In a statement, his family said Mr Love had always been their rock for many years. He will always be remembered by his loved ones as someone who lived his life to the fullest. They are also requesting for peace and privacy whilst they grieve and deal with the tragedy.

St Andrew’s Cathedral School, where Mr Love previously studied, extended their condolences to his family and friends.

“Myron will be remembered by those who knew him for his kind heart, infectious energy and as someone who lived his life to the fullest,” the Old Andreans Association wrote.

“He was well known within the St Andrew’s Cathedral School community and will be sorely missed by his friends, family and peers.”

Easts Cycling Club also paid their respects to Mr Love who was their former beloved member.

Meanwhile, the Australian Embassy in Nepal said they continue to work closely with Nepal’s authorities on recovery and identification processes, and to provide support to Mr Love’s family.

Read: A Glimpse of the Rich History of Tamarama Beach

“The Australian Embassy offers heartfelt condolences to the family of Myron Love. We are deeply saddened by the loss of an Australian and other lives in the #YetiAirlinesCrash,” the Embassy wrote in a Facebook post.