Waverley's beaches are dry this summer - but you can quench your thirst at our new bubblers

For the sixth year running, Waverley’s beaches, parks and streets are alcohol-free zones and will be enforced by NSW Police and Rangers as part of Council’s annual safety campaign, My Bondi Summer.

However, thirsty beachgoers can quench their thirst at new high-tech bubblers at Bondi, Bronte and Tamarama beaches.

My Bondi Summer has proven popular with its great line up of Christmas, New Year and Australia Day events and the multifaceted campaign has helped reduce alcohol-fuelled antisocial behaviour over summer.

Waverley Mayor Sally Betts said the initiative was designed to provide a fun and safe environment for everyone.

“Our beaches are popular with people of all ages and we want everyone to have a safe and pleasant time. We don’t want alcohol-fuelled antisocial behaviour to spoil anyone’s day, so we’re rolling out the Sober Santa campaign, which means you can not drink alcohol on our beaches. However, we have many licensed cafes, restaurants and hotels and will have many organised events such as Sunburnt Christmas, Shore Thing and NYE at Dudley Page Reserve.”

Waverley Local Area Command’s Inspector Chris Stiles Eastern Suburbs confirmed Police would enforce alcohol-free zones at Bondi, Tamarama and Bronte beaches and surrounding areas over the festive season and Australia Day weekend.

“The NSW Police wholeheartedly support Council’s sensible, balanced approach and the My Bondi Summer campaign. It’s important residents and visitors observe these regulations as they’re in place to protect people and ensure everyone has a good time.”

Mayor Betts said another focus of this year’s campaign is anti-littering and keeping the area looking appealing.

“Council is putting on extra cleaning crews and we have water refill stations and recycling bins at our beaches and parks. If our area looks good, then others are more likely to stop and think before throwing their rubbish away. Visitors will show more respect for our home if they find it clean when they get here.”

Council Lifeguard Bruce Hopkins reminded beachgoers that swimming while affected by alcohol is dangerous. “Alcohol doesn’t mix well with water – unless it’s in a glass. So please don’t drink and swim. The best Christmas present for us would be everyone having a safe and fun time at the beach without needing to be rescued.”

For more information about Christmas and New Year Events, ticketing details and alcohol free zones visit www.waverley.nsw.gov.au or pick up one of our free My Bondi Summer Lovin 10/11 booklets.

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