Stay out of the water: Bondi Icebergs damaged by swell as authorities issue warning

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued hazardous surf warnings for Sydney.
Swimmers and surfers are advised to not enter the water at Bondi Beach.
Bondi Icebergs has been damaged by a huge swell.
READ MORE: Shark nets removed early from 25 Sydney beaches – should you still swim?

Bondi Beach is an international icon. It’s synonymous with Australia and the white sands, blue waters and nearby Bondi Icebergs pool are recognised around the world. It’s not quite so picturesque today though. Huge swells continue to batter the beach and

Bondi Icebergs damaged

Huge waves were seen at Bondi Beach throughout the day yesterday, and could be heard up to a kilometre inland as the huge swells continued lashing the beach overnight. And the results were revealed as the sun rose through thick cloud this morning.

Glass fencing outside Bondi Icebergs Club was shattered and railings were damaged along the walkway above the pool. A large water tank was also swept onto the beach overnight, as waves continued to crash around the famous pool.

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No swim or surf zone

The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that “surf and swell conditions are expected to be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing, boating, and swimming” across several New South Wales coastal towns today. Byron Bay, Coffs Coast, Macquarie Coast, Hunter Coast, Illawarra Coast, Batemans Coast and Eden Coast are also affected, alongside Sydney Coast.

NSW Police Force, Marine Area Command advise that:

People should consider staying out of the water and avoid walking near surf-exposed areas.
Rock fishers should avoid coastal rock platforms exposed to the ocean and seek a safe location that is sheltered from the surf.
Boaters planning to cross shallow water and ocean bars should consider changing or delaying their voyage.
Boaters already on the water should carry the appropriate safety equipment and wear a lifejacket.
Boaters should remember to log on with their local Marine Rescue radio base, via VHF Radio or the Marine Rescue APP, and consider their safety management plan.

Some of the footage that’s been shared online in the past 24 hours has demonstrated a complete lack of common sense. Don’t be one of those people. Listen to the advice and save your visit to Bondi Beach for later in the week when conditions are forecast to improve.