1987 and 2017

Bondi Pavilion has been a much-loved symbol of Bondi Beach since it opened in 1929. It provides locals and visitors with a meeting place, community facilities and classes, changing rooms, event spaces, and the opportunity to engage in cultural activity, including theatre, music, dance, pottery, art and festivals.

Twice, 30 years apart (in 1987 and 2017), the community rallied to save Bondi Pavilion.

When Waverley Council announced plans for a multi-million-dollar Pavilion restoration in 2015, the proposal was met with public outcry. So began a two-year campaign by community members determined to ensure the building was restored and remained a public asset.

A local action group, Save Bondi Pavilion, was formed. Its convenor, Kilty O’Brien, and a dedicated group of locals created a grassroots movement that gathered wide-ranging support from Pavilion users. Many well-known actors, musicians, artists and politicians joined the campaign, including Michael Caton, Jack Thompson, Sam Neill, Julia Zemiro, Wil Anderson, John Olsen, Senator Lee Rhiannon, Reg Mombassa, Ben Lee and Hoodoo Gurus frontman Dave Faulkner. Numerous protests, events, petitions and concerts were organised and more than 120 videos were produced for social media as part of an extensive campaign. Pioneering environmental and social activist Jack Mundey AO gave his support and the Construction Union, CFMEU placed a Green Ban on the project.

In 2017 the local Council elections resulted in a change of government, the Pavilion restoration plan was revised and the Green Ban was lifted. The existing arts facilities were retained and refurbished while the heritage character of the Pavilion was conserved. The new Bondi Story Room you are enjoying today is one of the additions to the restored Bondi Pavilion.

Courtesy Friends of the Bondi Pavilion, images courtesy Andrew Worssam.