Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Thousands Pack Coogee as Bronte Crackdown Diverts ‘Backpacker Christmas

Waverley restrictions after last year’s mess pushed the unsanctioned party south.

Overview

  • Thousands of backpackers and expats gathered at Coogee Beach for an unofficial Christmas Day celebration.
  • NSW Police patrolled the area, a riot squad was reported on site, and no arrests were recorded.
  • Firefighters extinguished a small barbecue fire as lifeguards and rangers enforced alcohol-free rules.
  • Randwick Council rolled out extra bins, staff and signage, began cleaning by 7pm, and later said more than 20 tonnes of rubbish were cleared overnight.
  • Bronte stayed quiet after Waverley spent more than $250,000 on crowd-control, security and alcohol checkpoints due to construction and safety concerns.