Overview
When Sydney's beaches began to close down due to COVID-19, it started with Bondi, with hordes of people continuing to flock to the popular spot despite the implementation of strict social-distancing requirements. Now, the city is beginning to shut down access to its coastal walks as well, with the iconic Bondi to Bronte route now out of bounds in the interest of public safety.
Announcing the decision in a statement, Waverley Council advised that it made the call to close the Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk for the expected reason — because large groups continued to visit the area.
"Unfortunately, closing the coastal walk was the only way the council could help ensure that public health orders could be maintained along the walk," said Mayor of Waverley Paula Masselos. "Council is trying to balance the needs of our community, but we need our residents and visitors to adhere to social distancing in our public spaces."
jipe7 via Flickr
From today, Waverley Council is blocking all points of access to the coastal walk until further notice. Anyone who tries to mosey along the seaside trail will also find additional signage in place, as well as barricades. Those who attempt to access the walk could also literally pay a price, with Council Rangers having the power to fine people who trespass in closed and signposted areas.
And, as they have been for weeks now, the area's beaches remain closed as well.
To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website.
Top image: Dietmar Rabich via Wikimedia Commons.
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