Bondi’s Struggling Hospitality Scene: A Ghost Town Emerges
With breathtaking views of Australia’s renowned beach, the once vibrant Bondi strip now resembles a deserted town. Shopfronts are adrift in a sea of ‘For Lease’ signs, and dust has become a familiar sight amidst the absence of patrons.
A recent casualty in this downturn is Mojos Tapas Bar, a Spanish restaurant that had delighted locals for over 15 years. This closure adds to the growing list of establishments on Campbell Parade, which includes long-standing favourites like Bar34, The Anchor, Bondi Hardware, and Neighbourhood.
Alan Cunningham, the owner of Bar34, expressed deep concern as he had to close his doors just a few months prior. He described the situation as a "perfect storm" of challenges facing the local area. "There’s nothing there now… I think that’s quite sad," he shared.
Premium rents have compounded the issue, alongside a noticeable decline in tourist numbers, exacerbated by a stalled $68 million property project that curtailed the patronage from a popular nearby backpackers’ establishment. Additionally, stringent regulations, such as noise restrictions and outdoor drinking bans, have stifled the local nightlife, amid a broader shift towards earlier, quieter social activities.
The seemingly relentless cost-of-living crisis has also changed consumer behaviour, pushing many towards more economical outings. "A $5 coffee and a morning run is far cheaper than a $30 schnitzel and some live music at night," noted Cunningham. As the neighbouring Noah’s Backpackers closed, Cunningham lamented the bustling days when audiences would queue to enjoy live music – a far cry from today’s reality.
Despite remaining beaches brimming with visitors, Cunningham argued that this does not necessarily translate to success for local businesses. The only operations that appear to thrive are those owned by landholders with larger hotel portfolios or franchised venues.
A former bartender at Beach Road Hotel remarked that the area lacks the vibrant atmosphere it once had. "Friday nights in Bondi are usually dead now, likely because people want to wake early," they stated. Certain redevelopments further down the street have introduced modern bars and dining options that, seemingly out of place, offer a stark contrast to the stagnant areas nearby.
Cunningham reflected on the regulatory burdens restricting nightlife in Sydney, saying that excessive laws hinder the hospitality industry’s growth. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns echoed this sentiment, recently stating, "Sydney’s nightlife has been strangled by red tape." He pointed out that numerous places around the city close by 8:30 pm, despite there being a significant demand for late-night socialising.
In response to the crisis, Waverley Council has claimed to be actively working on revitalising the local economy by addressing some restrictions. They have promised reviews of outdoor dining regulations and extended hours for footpath seating availability. However, Cunningham feels that such measures may fall short.
"There needs to be a decisive vision for Bondi," he said, questioning whether the locale aims to become a lively nightlife hub akin to South Beach in Miami. He noted that many venue owners have been instructed to hold their breath until summer, as historically, the festive Christmas-New Year period significantly benefits the industry. However, with the ever-pressing challenges facing them, particularly due to a record high closure rate of 9.2% in Australia’s hospitality sector, the future remains uncertain.
Waverley Council also plans to host a large New Year’s Eve celebration and the Bondi Festival next July. "Council is investing record amounts into arts, culture, and events to reinvigorate Bondi," a spokesperson stated, emphasising beautification efforts in the area. Despite these initiatives, Cunningham remains cautiously optimistic, fearing they may not suffice to revive the waning business landscape of Bondi.
As operators and residents alike await a potential revival, Bondi’s vibrant spirit hangs in the balance, grappling with the consequences of economic shifts and changing social dynamics.
