Fireworks cancelled and money lost, but signs of hope for Bondi businesses
Sydneysiders and tourists have been asked to “open their wallets” in a show of solidarity for a community torn by terror, while nearly 100 businesses have applied for grants.
A bounce in visitor numbers has been recorded at other businesses heavily reliant on the tourist trade, including the Akubra hat shop on Hall Street where store manager Eliza Tucker said foot traffic had doubled during the past week.
Ash Mehana, owner of a Souvenir Plus on Campbell Parade, is also welcoming a rebound after a sharp drop in customer numbers over the usually busy Christmas period.
Ash Mehana, pictured outside his souvenir shop.Credit: Edwina Pickles
“Having the police presence, I think has made people feel safe and secure and the sun has also brought people back out again,” he said.
“We’ve had a lot of interstate customers saying that they want to come to Bondi to show their support for the community.”
Bondi was busy as crows flocked to the beachside strip on Tuesday.Credit: Edwina Pickles
Hotel Ravesis co-owner Aya Larkin said there was a strong determination to reclaim the world-renowned beach as a place of fun and relaxation.
“We’ve lost about $200,000 in trade over the last couple of weeks but for us, the concern isn’t the financial impact – first and foremost our focus has been on the community,” he said.
“On the day of the attack, we heard the gunshots and customers were hiding under our tables to take shelter – you never want to forget what happened on that day, but you also don’t want any terrorist to make people feel as though they have to hide in their shell or behind walls.
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“Bondi is strong and there’s a real determination among the community not to be cowered in fear.”
The NSW government announced small businesses in the immediate vicinity of the attack would be eligible for support grants of up to $25,000 to help them reopen.
Some businesses have reported delays receiving payment, including Curly Lewis Brewing Co, which recorded a 50 per cent drop in trade.
Manager Yesha Avsar said the cancellation of the Bondi New Year’s fireworks display also resulted in the cancellation of 50 bookings on what was usually the beachfront venue’s busiest period.
So far, 93 businesses had applied for grants and 34 had been approved, a NSW Department of Customer Service spokeswoman said in a statement, and the number was expected to rise in the coming weeks.
Waverley Council will also hold a meeting in mid-January to discuss further support measures.
