Keep Your Bondi Memories Sweet This Summer

By Dan Hutton on December 7, 2011 in News

Summer is upon us once again and it is only a matter of time before there is more skin than sand on display at our local beaches. Bondi in particular will be absolutely pumping over the next few months and as such the good folk at Waverley Council have asked that The Beast to send out a few poignant reminders to both locals and visitors alike to ensure that everyone has a safe and happy summer season.

Swim Between the Flags

Only swim between the red and yellow flags – these are the areas marked out by the lifeguards as the safest areas to swim. They are usually found at the middle section of the beach, in front of the Bondi Pavilion (which has lockers, showers and toilets), and at the northern end of the beach.

The southern end of the beach is home to number of strong rip currents and is a designated surf craft only area. Do not swim there!

For calmer water, ocean pools are located at the northern and southern ends of the beach, including the famous Icebergs pool at the southern end.

And remember, alcohol and the ocean don’t mix. Please don’t swim if you’ve been drinking.

Be Sun Smart

It’s no secret that the Aussie sun is strong. Wear a hat and shades, use and re-apply sunblock regularly and drink plenty of water. Water fountains are located along the promenade at Bondi to top up your water bottle.

No Smoking on the Beach

Cigarette butts, although small, have a big environmental impact. One count estimated that there could be 100,000 butts on Bondi Beach. Smoking is not allowed on the beach. If you smoke, please do so on the promenade where you’ll find ashtrays, and be sure to dispose of any other rubbish into the recycling bins provided.

Alcohol Free Zones

Bondi Beach, Bronte and Tamarama are all Alcohol Free Zones. There are, of course, plenty of licensed premises just a stroll away from the beach where you can enjoy a drink (or two).

The police, hotels and the council work hard to manage any anti-social behaviour, so have a glass of water between drinks, keep an eye on your drink, look out for your mates and make your way home quietly. Excessive noise, disorderly conduct, litter and vandalism create an unpleasant and unsafe environment.

A word of caution, on Christmas Day, the Alcohol Free Zones are vigorously enforced at the beaches and parks by the police, council rangers and security guards.

Have a wonderful and safe festive season and, regardless of whether you live here or are just passing through, enjoy your time in the east!