Backpackers threatened with deportation after flouting Covid rules at Sydney Christmas beach party

Outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in Sydney
People wearing Santa hats gather at Bronte Beach,
INSTAGRAM/@stucrabb via REUTERS

Australia says it could deport backpackers who go against Covid-19 rules, after hundreds of unmasked revellers were seen partying at a Sydney beach on Christmas Day.

Footage of the gathering shared on social media showed large groups of young partygoers - many believed to be British - dancing at Bronte Beach, which neighbours the famous Bondi Beach in east Sydney, in breach of regulations. 

The event, which sparked anger among officials, comes as Sydney battles a new outbreak after months of no local cases. The number of infections has grown to 129.

The virus’ resurgence a week before Christmas sparked a swift re-introduction of restrictions in the city, including clampdowns on holiday gatherings and a lockdown of the worst-affected region, the Northern Beaches.

Speaking to the BBC on Tuesday,  Australia's Immigration Minister Alex Hawke said he had been "shocked" by the scenes at Bronte Beach.  

He added: “If somebody is threatening public safety or health, their visa can be cancelled and revoked.”

But Mr Hawke did not go into detail on how or if authorities would track down the partygoers - none of whom have been fined or otherwise penalised according to New South Wales state police.

Witnesses told the BBC they believed the majority were from the UK or “not Australian.”

"You could hear lots of clearly English accents, and several people were wearing the white English football jerseys," said local journalist, Peter Hannam, who had passed the crowds while on a walk with his family.

He said a police squad and helicopter later arrived at the scene. Video shared on social media showed lingering groups carrying on with their activities as police circulated and tried to disperse people.

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