03:25 EDT, 2 January 2021
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The Christmas Day backpackers party that authorities say had the potential to be a super-spreader event grew into a huge gathering after the mostly foreign attendees sent messages inviting more and more friends to the escalating event.
Hundreds of partygoers gathered on Bronte Beach in Sydney s east on December 25, dancing and drinking on top of each other on a grassed area before being moved on by NSW Police.
While most separated and left the beach when asked, one 25-year-old man refused, and he will now face court in the new year.
The party came amid a growing outbreak of Covid-19 in the city - and infuriated Sydneysiders who fear it could lead to a spike in cases and another lockdown in the city.
Brit backpackers blamed for Oz Covid outbreak after flocking to favourite beach for insane Christmas Day party
Updated: 30 Dec 2020, 15:37
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AUSTRALIA S immigration minister has condemned Christmas Day revellers who ignored coronavirus rules and partied in a mass rave on a Sydney beach.
Brit backpackers could even face deportation after flouting the rules to attend the party at Bronte Beach on December 25.
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New South Wales has announced new restrictions ahead of New Years EveCredit: Twitter / Peter Hannam
Some of the partygoers are thought to be British nationals who had travelled to Australia before the pandemic and stayed there on 12-month visas after the country shut its borders.
Some are thought to be backpackers who have stayed in Australia during Covid
Sydney is now facing tougher measures after outbreak of local cases in NSW
Backpackers have been warned they could have visas cancelled and sent home
The Christmas Day revellers who partied on a Sydney beach - in a gathering which escalated into a mass rave that has caused outrage in Australia - included backpackers from Britain and New Zealand, it has emerged.
Some partygoers have deleted their social media profiles after photos of the Bronte Beach bash were condemned by Australia s immigration minister, who said people could be deported for breaking Covid-19 restrictions.