The Mystery Of Bondi’s Gypsies

By Kimberly O'Sullivan on December 19, 2012 in Other

Photo: Waverley Library

Gypsies have been getting quite a bit of air time lately, what with Channel Nine broadcasting that horrendous show My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding.

By definition, Gypies are Romani people, an ethnic group who trace their origins to the Indian Subconinent.

Gypsies are widely dispersed, with their largest concentrated populations in Europe, especially those of Central and Eastern Europe and Anatolia, followed by the Kale of Iberia and Southern France.

But it would seem that Gypsies have not always been confined entirely to these regions. In fact, it is thought that Bondi Beach of all places was once home to a Gypsy camp back in the late 19th century.

According to Historian B. T. Dowd, author of The History of the Waverley Municipal District (1859-1959), a significant Gypsy camp existed in Bondi from the late 19th century to the early 20th century.

In his book he wrote:

“Here they did a thriving business, selling various kinds of goods and in telling fortunes. There appeared to be some people from Argentine and Mexico amongst them. The women wore a bright garb with much decoration in gold and silver ornamentation. Though living in tents and wagons they seemed to have plenty of money, goods and jewellery. With the party there were a number of children – very precocious – many asking if they would be allowed to read palms. The camp created a good deal of public attention while at Bondi.”

Dowd also described the Gypsies as being ‘Greek’ rather than Romani, but this was a point of some contention. Another early historian, Major W. Johnston, described the Gypsies as ‘Spanish’. It is also possible that they could have been early Lebanese hawkers who were a common sight in the streets of Sydney at this time. Or, of course, they could really be Romani Gypsies – a romantic tale indeed.

Looking around Bondi these days it is not too big a stretch to imagine a Gypsy colony taking up residence alongside our beautiful beach. In fact, today Bondi often resembles a Gypsy colony, what with the bright garb sported by the local hipsters, the outdoor markets peddling everything from flowers and produce to fashion and homewares, the criminal undertones (drugs and burglary anyone?) and the transient population who are here one week and gone the next.

To paraphrase Dowd in a modern context, “Though living in small cluttered units and run-down houses, Bondi’s modern-day Gypsies seem to have plenty of money, goods and jewellery.”

If you would like to learn more about the colourful history of the Eastern Beaches area you can call Waverley Council Local Studies Librarian Kimberly O’Sullivan on 9386 7744 or you can send her an email at kimberlyo@waverley.nsw.gov.au.