A Christmas to Forget for Locals
The picturesque Bronte Beach was transformed into a party hub on Christmas Day, with an estimated 15,000 revellers flocking to the shores. But as the sun set, the aftermath of the festive bash left locals fuming. The beach was left littered with rubbish, including bin bags, empty cooler bags, and scores of beer and wine bottles.
“Disappointing” Aftermath
Local Waverley City Council mayor Will Nemesh expressed his disappointment at the state of the beach, despite implementing a “Summer Safe” program to minimize the chaos. “Despite our best efforts, so much rubbish and waste was still left behind,” he said. The mayor spent the evening assisting the waste and cleaning team, and by 9 am on Boxing Day, the beach and park were fully cleaned.
Residents Speak Out
Residents took to social media to express their concerns about the amount of glass on the path from Bronte to Bondi, urging others – especially dog owners – to be careful. One local business owner, Fern Coop, praised the council’s efforts but highlighted the need for stricter measures to prevent littering and reduce harm to the beach.
Measures in Place, But More Needs to be Done
The council had placed over 250 additional garbage bins at Bronte Beach, but they appeared to have little effect. Despite a drinking ban, alcohol bottles were still left behind. The mayor promised to make changes to prevent future incidents, saying the council would work directly with residents to ensure the area is cleaned quickly and efficiently.
The Event’s Dark Side
The event was marred by reports of public drinking, anti-social behaviour, and even an alleged assault. Police attended the scene of an incident where a man was left unconscious, but no charges have been laid. A man in his 20s was also hospitalised after attempting to dive from a cliff into the ocean pool.
The Party That Never Stops
Despite the chaos, many attendees praised the event, calling it “insane” and “mental”. The Christmas Day bash has become a staple of Sydney’s summer calendar, particularly for expats and backpackers. The party continued into the evening, with DJs setting up decks and speakers on the parkland, and police patrolling the crowds on horseback.
Lessons Learned
Last year’s event was slammed as the “worst ever” and “disgusting” by locals, with huge crowds leaving the beach covered in trash. The council has taken steps to prevent a repeat of the chaos, including extra rangers, security, and police, but more needs to be done to ensure the enjoyment of the beach for all.