The harmless activity that could be banned from Bondi Beach if ‘fed-up’ locals get their way
- Residents are calling for beach volleyball to be banned in Bondi and Tamarama
- The matter has divided the community – some argue it is part of beach culture
- Waverley Council has launched a feedback form to determine local consensus
Fed-up locals are rallying for volleyball to be banned on Bondi and Tamarama beaches amid concerns the game poses a danger to other beachgoers.
Residents in Sydney’s east are calling on Waverley Council to bar the sport from being played on the coastline, arguing flying volley balls could hurt children.
But the matter has divided the community with other locals asserting it has ‘never been a problem’ and is a part of beach culture.
Fed-up locals are rallying for volleyball to be banned on Bondi (above) and Tamarama beaches amid concerns the game poses a danger to other beachgoers
The council has launched a feedback form to determine how many locals are in favour of abolishing the ball game and to find out whether players are abiding by existing rules.
‘Concerns have been raised by members of our community regarding the location of beach volleyball courts and compliance with council’s rules of play’ a spokesman for Waverley Council said, News.com.au reports.
‘If necessary, there may be further investigation or the rules of play for beach volleyball may be reviewed.’
But some outraged locals have flocked to the council’s Facebook page to express their disappointment over the proposition.
The council has launched a feedback form to determine how many locals are in favour of abolishing the ball game and to find out whether players are abiding by existing rules
‘Australians should actually be proud of this beautiful sport. So many Olympic medals and also very well represented in all world championships tours,’ one resident wrote.
Another added: ‘It’s embarrassing that they would try to get rid of volleyball (when) there is so much space on Tamarama and Bondi beaches.
‘There seems to be such a great volleyball community too. A few whingers ruining it for everyone as usual. I’ve already written to the council.’
‘I have lived in Bondi nearly 30 years and it’s never been a problem. The council should promote and install permanent set ups. Sport is healthy and enjoyable,’ a third wrote.
Mayor of Waverley Paula Masselos said: ‘[It would be] inappropriate to speculate on the potential outcomes of the consultation when the consultation hasn’t been completed yet and a report is yet to come to council’.
Under existing rules, volleyball must be played using a softball and only in allocated areas where nets can be erected, with four nets permitted at Tamarama and three at Bondi.
No organised competitions are allowed and games must not conflict with other beach users.
The feedback form will close on May 17, with the council then entering discussions based on the responses.