Coastal councils in the country’s most populous state are warning both residents and visitors to behave responsibly in the coming days, with a massive influx of crowds expected to descend on the state’s beaches on Christmas Day in particular.
Australia is synonymous with a beachside barbecue and the idea of spending the day by the sea with friends, but Sydney councils this year are warning that a simple slip-up, even unwittingly, could see you land in hot water.
Last year, residents slammed a raucous Christmas party at Bronte Beach, in the city’s east, as the “worst ever” festive event to date, with locals forced to pitch in to clean up broken glass and vomit which they said was left behind by travellers.
Tens of thousands of mostly tourists flocked to the spot, donning red bathers for the annual beach party event, which was branded “out of control” by some shocked residents. A similarly rowdy event took place in 2022, with scenes described as “like a rave”.
Huge amount of rubbish left behind last Christmas
In a statement, a Waverley Council spokesperson told Yahoo the safe enjoyment of public and recreational spaces is “our number one priority”. “We will not tolerate anti-social behaviour. Accordingly, we have taken a number of significant proactive measures to ensure our community can relax and enjoy the summer period as part of our Summer Safe program,” the spokesperson told Yahoo on Monday.
“This includes additional deployment of NSW Police, enhanced public cleaning services, traffic management initiatives, crowd control measures and additional public toilets.
“We encourage everyone to enjoy our beaches responsibly and safely, ensuring they remain a welcoming space for all.”
Eastern suburbs councillors have implemented the 2024-25 Summer Safe Program to address concerns like last year’s Christmas Day at Bronte. Source: Facebook
On Monday, one local shared images from last Christmas wondering if the area will see a repeat this week. “Council and police won’t do anything about it,” they complained.
Responding this afternoon, Councillor Joshua Spicer said local authorities were on alert and had plans in place “to address concerns like last year’s Christmas Day at Bronte”.
Coogee Beach on Christmas Day is expected to draw thousands. Source: ABC
Extra council rangers, security, and police along with a dedicated cleaning crew and more bins and waste trucks will be out in force this year. Source: Facebook
Sydney beachgoers asked not to litter, drink only in designated zones
This year Waverley Council launched its “Stay Safe this Summer” campaign, which aims to protect people in the surf, and remind people how to behave responsibly at beach reserves.
While Bondi and Bronte draw huge crowds, many also flock further south to Coogee and Clovelly on Christmas Day. Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, a Randwick City Council spokesperson encouraged beachgoers to follow the guidelines.
“Beaches get very, very busy in summer. On a hot day I assume you will not be able to park anywhere near the beach. Think about catching public transport, cycling, rideshare or even drop off the family and park further away and bus it in,” a spokesman told Yahoo.
Locals said they were forced to clean up rubbish and even vomit after last year’s event. Source: Supplied
“If you love the beach don’t rubbish the beach. It’s not OK to leave your rubbish – even if others do. Take it with you and bin it.” He reminded the public some areas are strictly no alcohol zones. “Beaches and beachside parks are alcohol-free over summer,” the spokesperson said.
On the northern beaches, a council spokeswoman reiterated the message. Manly Beach draws thousands to the area each year over Christmas and Boxing Day.
“Northern Beaches is blessed with over 30 picturesque ocean, harbour and bay beaches attracting thousands of locals and visitors during the summer months,” she said.
“Don’t forget to consider the environment. Please take your rubbish with you or use the bins provided—no one wants to see or swim alongside litter in our beautiful waterways.
“Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. Our goal is for everyone to return home safely after a memorable day on the Northern Beaches. Our beaches can look calm but still be very dangerous.”
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