Waverley Council releases plan for managing Bondi Beach during busy summer period

The Waverley Council’s plan was released Tuesday for the operational management of Bondi’s open spaces and beaches over the upcoming busy summer period.

With this summer projected to hit above-average temperatures, thousands are expected to flock to one of Australia’s busiest beaches to beat the heat.

The new plan by the Council will help manage beaches and open spaces in a COVID-safe way and in line with Public Health Orders (PHOs) and health advice. The plan covers Waverley’s beaches, parks and reserves, the Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk, picnic tables, BBQs, and outdoor seating areas and outdoor fitness stations and playgrounds.

“Our community and visitors have all worked hard to ensure our community has remained safe during this time of pandemic, and I am very appreciative of their efforts,” Waverley Mayor Paula Masselos said.

“This summer will be especially challenging as we expect another very hot summer. However we recognise how important our open spaces and beaches are to people’s health and well being, and our focus will be on how to keep these spaces open.

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“Our plan has been drafted taking account of consultation with key internal and external stakeholders including Waverley Council staff, Councillors, local surf clubs, neighbouring councils and NSW Police.

“It is operational in nature and informed by the Public Health Orders (PHOs) and health advice. It is designed to be flexible and subject to change as public health order restrictions, health advice and circumstances and conditions change.”

Masselos says that groups of more than 20 people at Bondi Beach will be given a move-along order by Rangers, with police called to assist if there are refuses to disperse.

“Again, this is not going to be a normal summer and that is why we are continuing to ask people to follow the current PHOs and maintain social distancing in our public places at all times,” the Mayor added.

“Please, if our beaches or parks look busy, come back another time or use that time to visit our local businesses who need your support. Again, this is not going to be a normal summer, we all need to adapt and do our bit by staying safe when visiting our public places.”