Council champions NYE beach event to bring back Bondi buzz

At this month's Council meeting, a motion from Bondi Ward Councillor Michelle Stephenson and Waverley Council Mayor Will Nemesh for a Bondi Beach New Year’s Eve event was supported by Council. This is a major step in reinvigorating the famous Bondi Beach vibrancy known to locals and visitors alike.

Council will undertake an Expression of Interest (EOI) process to find a suitable partner to run the event and with Council keen to secure the support of the State Government and Destination NSW.

Mayor Nemesh said, “Bringing back a NYE event at Bondi Beach is part of our plan to create more fun for our residents, visitors and community.

“We want to see greater activation of our public spaces and a New Year’s Eve event is the perfect activity for welcoming in the new year. I am energised by Council’s focus and priority to provide our residents and community with more festivals, more events and more options to have fun.”

Having successfully staged the Mardi Gras Bondi Beach Dance Party in previous years, Council is confident in its capacity to collaborate effectively with industry to minimise the impact to residents and implement curfews, cleaning, waste disposal and effective transport management.

Councillor Michelle Stephenson said, “As a Bondi Ward Councillor one thing I consistently hear is how the community has lost its vibe. Many locals are crying out for ways to reconnect and what better way than through music.

“Local businesses including bars and restaurants are also looking for ways to increase visitors in a tough economic climate. Top tier talent performing on an iconic beach. I honestly can’t think of a better way to bring in the New Year.”

Notes to editor

• In previous years, Bondi Beach was a focal point for New Year’s Eve celebrations, attracting both locals and international visitors with its unique blend of beach culture and festive atmosphere.

• Bondi’s annual NYE event, Shore Thing, was last held for the 2013/14 New Year’s Eve.

• In 1999, renowned DJ Carl Cox made history by performing at Bondi Beach to welcome the new millennium before flying across the international dateline to perform again in Hawaii, effectively celebrating the New Year twice in different countries. Such events cemented Bondi’s reputation as a premier destination for year-end festivities.