A blueprint for the future of the Pav

By Susan Merrell

Waverley Council has released a six-point strategy plan for the Bondi Pavilion aiming to ensure the iconic building continues to be relevant and accessible to the community.
‘We consulted Bondi Pavilion’s many users,’ Waverley Mayor Ingrid Strewe said. ‘The Purpose Statement identifies a number of new opportunities and potential developments to ensure the Pavilion remains a dynamic multipurpose facility.’

Strategies include the expansion of cultural programs to include an artist-in-residence, a major refurbishment of the theatre, landscaping of the courtyards with significant weather-proof covering, and upgrading and repositioning of the amphitheatre.

The council has begun implementing the program, and work is already in progress with the external façade now repainted and the roof repaired. The interior has also been given a fresh lick of paint and electricals and drainage have been upgraded. New landscaping has also enhanced the northern courtyard.
‘I think the Pavilion is looking better than ever,’ Cr Strewe said.

The ‘Pav’, as it is affectionately known, is a highly-prized local icon.

Simone Naiger, who has lived in Bondi all her life, thinks the ‘Pav’ is fine as it is.
‘It’s an important part of Bondi,’ she said. ‘Restoring it is okay but I would hate to see it change character. It should keep the heritage look.’

Dave Hartmann of nearby Bronte said: ‘It feels authentic. I’d like the council to maintain the charm and sense of history.’

They need not worry. The Bondi Pavilion, built in 1928, was classified by the National Trust in 1977. Part of the Purpose Statement pertains to the conservation and protection of its historical significance.

The pavilion’s original purpose was to provide dressing room accommodation for up to 12,000 people. It included Turkish baths, shops, gymnasium and a ballroom.
Although the Turkish baths are no longer there, some things don’t change. On the first Wednesday of each month the ballroom swells with the strains of old-time classics as senior citizens are treated to shows of music and dance.
As far as locals are concerned, that’s fine.