From tomorrow,Sydneysiders will again be allowed to lie on the sand at some of the city's most popular beaches,as NSW continues to ease COVID-19 restrictions.
But with the state government limiting the number of people allowed in a gathering to 10,it's not entirely clear how that will be enforced in public spaces that up to now have been closed – or open strictly for exercise only.
After reopening its beaches in April for exercise only,Randwick City Council will extend that to general recreation from tomorrow,including at Clovelly,Coogee and Maroubra,as well as some ocean pools. (Wylies Baths and McIver’s Ladies Baths will stay closed due to upgrading work and staffing limitations.)
The council's playgrounds,outdoor gyms,basketball courts and skate parks will also open for recreational activity for up to 10 people,so long as social distancing is observed.
Mayor Danny Said says beachgoers shouldn’t become complacent.
"The relaxation of some restrictions means we’re taking small,cautious steps towards life as we used to know it,but is not an indication that we should become complacent,"Mr Said said in a statement.
"If at any point an area looks busy or full,we ask that people use common sense and use the facility at another time,"Mr Said said.
A Waverley Council spokeswoman said its beaches,including Bondi,Bronte and Tamarama,would remain closed with access to the water only for swimming and surfing.
However,Waverley’s ocean pools,playgrounds,outdoor gyms and sporting courts will be open from Friday,with the 10-person limit enforced.
Council staff will monitor visitor numbers at North Bondi and Bronte pools to ensure the restrictions are followed.
Bondi Beach was closed on March 21 after thousands of sunbathers crowded on to the sand,sparking condemnation across the world.
With AAP