Art and culture on the beach
Bondi Beach lies approximately 10 kilometres east of downtown Sydney. This wide sandy beach is an icon of Australian beach culture and has been attracting sun lovers and surfers for over 100 years. It is a popular destination year-round, and some of Sydney’s largest cultural and music events take place here. In August thousands of runners kick up the sand during the City2Surf fun run, and for 2 weeks during October and November artists from around the world showcase their most beautiful work at the Sculpture by the Sea event. But Bondi Beach offers much more than sunshine and clear ocean water. To admire some Aboriginal art visit the Ben Buckler Reserve north of the beach; in these rocks you will find fascinating carvings of fish, sharks and boomerangs. Along the way you will pass the Bondi Pavilion. This elegant landmark was built in the late 1920s as changing rooms for the large number of swimmers. Today, the building houses a theatre, galleries and various shops.
Young heroes
The safety of swimmers at Bondi Beach is in good hands. The Bondi Surf Bathers’ Life Saving Club is the oldest rescue organisation in the world and an Australian cultural icon. The club was founded in 1907 when a group of friends wanted to ensure the safety of all swimmers. Today, the club is Australia’s largest volunteer organisation and there is even a special place on the team for young heroes! Starting at the age of 5, brave boys and girls learn how to surf and rescue swimmers. In summer, these 'Nippers' practice their rescue skills every Sunday morning.