Illegal beach party in Sydney's east becomes superspreader event

An illegal beachside party in Sydney’s east has become a superspreader event after 11 people tested positive to Covid-19.

NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant was shaking with anger as she issued a dire warning against breaching public health orders.

"There was a gathering in Maroubra, and 11 people attending that gathering have tested positive," she said.

"I understand why people are tired and fatigued. But we just cannot have that occurring, where we end up with a further escalation of cases associated with events that are not permitted at this time."

It comes as Covid-19 cases across the state continue to surge, with another 644 new infections on Friday.

NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant speaks to the media during a press conference in Sydney on Friday. Source: AAP
NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant speaks to the media during a press conference in Sydney on Friday after 644 new cases were announcced. Source: AAP

Thousands fined for breaking Covid rules

NSW Police are ramping up its attack on the so-called “war on Covid", issuing almost 3,500 public infringement notices since Monday.

Officers are targeting major roads and beaches across the state to ensure compliance of the state's tough restrictions, as part of Operation Stay-At-Home.

NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller said nearly 500 tickets were issued in the past 24 hours to people leaving their home without a reasonable excuse, including four men who claimed they were exercising at 2am.

“They were given $78,000 worth of tickets and sent packing home,” he said.

"This is all about stopping the transmission of the virus from the areas of concern, those 12 LGA's to the rest of Greater Sydney and certainly regional NSW.”

NSW Police officers patrol Bondi Beach in Sydney. Source: AAP
Operation Stay at Home: NSW Police officers patrol Bondi Beach in Sydney. Source: AAP

Illegal party sparks curfew debate

Singer and Maroubra resident Guy Sebastian lashed out on Twitter demanding curfews be introduced in the eastern suburbs.

“I live in the Maroubra area. If people were inconsiderate enough to have a party that resulted in 11 +ive cases then I’ll cop the consequences for their actions,” he said.

“If people out west have curfews then we shouldn’t be any different. Our community do not think we are above anyone.”

Hundreds of comments quickly flooded in, with most people praising the singer’s controversial call.

“I too live in Maroubra, I have seen so many people doing the wrong thing, putting us all at risk,” commented one person.

“Thanks Guy, as a healthcare worker currently in Iso, our health staff are at their breaking points and no one sees or cares about that,” posted another.

Another said: “Agree. I live in Upper North Shore and see a blatant disregard for rules, not much social distancing or masks, hoards of adolescents in soccer/bike trails.”

“Who is going out after 9pm anyways. What can you even do?” questioned another Twitter user.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play.