Residents in Sydney have expressed outrage after one of the city's most famous beaches was left buried under a mountain of discarded waste following Christmas Day celebrations.
A Scene of Festive Filth
Thousands of people descended upon Coogee Beach in Sydney's eastern suburbs on Thursday, with the large gathering compared by some to a bustling nightclub. However, as the crowds finally dispersed late in the evening, the picturesque location was transformed into a dismal sight.
The lawns and sand were strewn with a vast array of debris, including empty alcohol bottles, plastic food packaging, abandoned cooler bags, and blankets. The disgusting scenes were a stark echo of an unauthorised 'Orphan's Christmas' gathering at nearby Bronte Beach last year, which attracted over 15,000 people.
Community Backlash and Clean-Up Efforts
The sight provoked a furious reaction from Australians on social media, who condemned the revellers for their lack of responsibility. One incensed local wrote, "Some people are filthy f***ing pigs. All the rubbish at Coogee Beach yesterday. f***ing disgusting." Another commented, "Sick of those f***ing backpackers trashing beaches on Christmas Day."
Many called for councils to introduce entry fees to fund the necessary clean-up operations. Randwick Council crews began a major clean-up operation on Friday morning, tasked with removing the waste and searching for hazardous broken glass. Their efforts were praised by some residents, with one woman noting the council had "done an incredible job."
Police Presence and Wider Context
Despite clear reminders that Coogee Beach and the adjacent park are alcohol-free zones, drinks were openly consumed throughout the day. The police riot squad was present to monitor the festivities, although no arrests were reported.
The incident occurred as other iconic beaches, like Bondi and Bronte, saw smaller crowds than usual. This was partly attributed to the nation mourning the recent horrific Bondi attack, with a floral memorial remaining on the footbridge and a visible police presence on the promenade. Waverley Council had also urged people to avoid Bronte Beach this year due to safety concerns over ongoing construction work.
The event has reignited a fierce debate about public responsibility, environmental protection, and the strain such large, unmanaged gatherings place on local infrastructure and council resources.
