Bondi Beach gym controversy results in threats to Waverley mayor

A Sydney mayor has allegedly been inundated with threats and online trolling after equipment was temporarily removed from Bondi Beach’s famous outdoor gym, with the council blaming “incorrect media reporting” for the pile-on.

Gym-goers working out at the Bondi Beach outdoor gym.

A Sydney mayor has allegedly been inundated with threats and intimidation, ignited by what his council has described as “incorrect media reporting” about plans for equipment at Bondi Beach’s famous outdoor gym.

Waverley Council on Thursday lodged a police report alleging mayor Will Nemesh had received threats and intimidating correspondence over the removal of free weights from the famous beach’s gym.

The temporary decision to remove the free weights was made in April, over safety concerns raised by members of the public and public liability issues for the council.

However, the weights were returned to the gym earlier this month, with added safety measures following a resolution at Waverley Council’s meeting on July 15.

But days after the weights were returned, on July 28, the Sydney Morning Herald reported a “fitness furore” had been ignited, with gym-goers demanding the equipment be restored.

As a result, a Waverley Council spokesman said the council had received a massive backlash from the community.

Gym-goers working out at the Bondi Beach outdoor gym.

“Unfortunately, incorrect media reporting has sparked some upset on social media, with false and misleading information being circulated,” the spokesman said

“Threats have been received by mayor Will Nemesh, and while non-local trolls appear to be responsible, council takes the content seriously and has referred it to authorities.”

Mayor Will Nemesh has allegedly been threatened online.

The threats are understood to have included accusations the mayor was “anti-testosterone”.

The spokesman confirmed some of the threats had been referred to NSW Police, adding it was “unfortunate that erroneous media reports had caused confusion among gym goers”, and that “divisive comments were incorrectly attributed to Waverley Council”.

“To reiterate the facts, the outdoor gym continues to operate, free weights remain available, a temporary issue was swiftly resolved by council, and a fair and balanced solution is now in place,” the spokesman said.

In a statement, Mr Nemesh said the council wanted to “facilitate the use of the beach and park as far as possible”, and promote health and fitness.

“Bondi Beach is an important public space enjoyed by residents and visitors for a wide range of activities,” Mr Nemesh said.

“We want to facilitate the use of the beach and park as far as possible as well as promote health and fitness.

“In last week’s council motion, we have achieved a balance in the needs and concerns of both gym users and the general public.

“A motion in this month’s council meeting approved the usage of the free weights left by the public with limits on the number of items and restriction on the placement of the equipment to within the gym area.”

The signage around the gym will be amended by the council to provide clear guidance on appropriate use.

A NSW Police spokesperson confirmed an investigation into the threats had been launched.

“On Thursday, officers from Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command commenced an investigation after receiving reports of threatening emails allegedly being sent to a local organisation,” the spokesperson said

“As inquiries continue police are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact Waverley Police Station or Crime Stoppers.”

The Sydney Morning Herald was approached for comment.