Relaxing of Bondi booze ban moves a step closer
The relaxing of Bondi’s booze ban has moved a step closer. However, many are warning the move will lead to alcohol-fuelled violence at Australia’s most famous beach suburb.
Wentworth Courier
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The relaxing of Bondi’s booze ban has moved a step closer — despite fears it will lead to a return of the alcohol-fuelled violence of the 80s and 90s.
On Thursday night Waverley Council voted to put the proposal out on public consultation, which if passed would allow drinking in parks near the beach at certain times of the day.
The extraordinary meeting heard from two members of the community, who told councillors there were already “drunk people everywhere” at the parks of a weekend and that they were “not places you wanted to be on weekends” as a result of rowdy revellers.
Deputy mayor Elaine Keenan argued 25 years had passed since the restrictions were introduced and it was time to test the pulse of residents about the plans.
“We are still imposing the rules (around the Waverley LGA) but it is time we looked at a new rule (for Bondi and Bronte parks),” she said.
“We’re not imposing a rule allowing everyone to do what they like.”
Should the trial go ahead, it would allow alcohol to be consumed at the parks between 12pm and 7pm seven days a week over a fourth month period in the summer.
Eastern Suburbs Police commander Mark Scott had written to council earlier this month pushing against the move over concerns of “pop-up style parties” overlooking the iconic Bondi Beach.
Councillor Leon Goltsman last night moved to rescind the motion passed at last week’s council meeting, which would seek consultation from local surf clubs and other organisations.
His fellow Liberal councillor Tony Kay said lifeguards had raised concerns about punters drinking and then heading into the sea for a swim.
“Police have said they don’t want any changes … it is their view it would be a detractor to allow them to drink in Bondi (park) and return to the bad old days when there was alcohol-fuelled violence in the 80s and 90s,” Cr Kay said.
Outbursts of “shame” erupted from the liberal councillors’ side of the table when Greens and Labor councillors voted against rescinding last week’s motion.
Council will now push ahead and consult with community groups about a potential trial of allowing alcohol in Bondi and Bronte parks.
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