Ice Magic By The Beach

By Marcus Braid on June 10, 2015 in News

As the only beach in Australia to provide a real ice rink, Bondi Beach has proven the place to be for both winter and summer.

The ice rink in front of the iconic Bondi Pavilion is back again this year, and for an extra week than last year, from June 20 to July 12.

“The rink is more than 500 square metres and it gives visitors a pretty special view of one of the world’s most famous beaches,” a spokesperson for Waverley Council said.

“There are daily ice-skating lessons for kids, a Pete the Penguin ice-skating aid for younger skaters and daily craft activities rink-side for kids.

“There are also shows on the weekends featuring Olympic champions.”

The ice rink has been well received since its inception, offering a unique experience by Bondi Beach. Previously the rink was run by an external event organiser, but a temporary ice and roller skating company, Stars on Ice, are on board to support the ice rink.

Last year more than 21,000 ice rink tickets were sold, with an estimated 10,000 spectators also making their way to the ice rink to see their family and friends on the ice.

Almost 70% of ice rink ticket sales were purchased by people in the Eastern Suburbs, proving the popularity of the ice rink for locals as well as tourists.

“These sales exceeded Council and Stars on Ice expectations,” said a Council spokesperson. “But we expect to sell about 30,000 tickets this year because the rink is open for an extra week.”

The ice rink is the centrepiece of a campaign run by Council to draw more visitors to the area in winter.

“Bondi Ice Rink helps build a sense of community and stimulate and support the local economy during its slower trading months of the year,” said a Council spokesperson.

“Businesses requested the ice rink stay open for longer at the end of last year’s event – we happily agreed to keep the rink open an extra week this year to help increase business.

“The ice rink is a focal point but there are many other attractions and activities for people to enjoy.”

Art on the Streets and Music on the Streets events will also run during July. The Bondi Ice Rink website will be a portal for all ticket sales.

“People can visit and enjoy the coastal walk, art gallery, theatre, skateboard bowl, enjoy a meal at one of the many cafes or restaurants at Bondi Beach, shop, visit the Bondi Farmers Market on Saturdays and Bondi Markets on Sundays, and there are Bondi history walks on Sunday throughout July,” a Council spokesperson said.

Ticket prices have been released, with entry to the ice rink costing $22 for those 14 years and above, while it costs $16 for those 5-13 years and $10 for 2-4 year-olds. A family special deal is on offer, with $65 entry for two adults and two children, or one adult and three kids.

Tickets go on sale on May 30 and are available through www.bondiicerink.com.