Anita Kolni

Anita Kolni

The Volvo Ocean Lovers Festival is coming up next month. This will be the fourth celebration of all things ocean and what is now a regular item on the Waverley Council schedule.

The programme offers markets, music, art, workshops, and activities plus two full days of talks for anyone would like to “rock up to for some science in your swimmers”. The idea for the festival is “to increase awareness and inspire action to support a healthy ocean”.

And whose idea was this in the first place? Let us introduce you to “passionate changemaker” Anita Kolni.

It was founder/director Anita’s drive and energy that has seen this festival become one of the biggest of its kind in the country, attracting 58,000 visitors over three events with a digital media reach of 12 million.

What is your Bondi story?

“I have been in Bondi for over 30 years now. Once you move to Bondi it is really hard to leave. It is such a special place. I have 4 children who are all Bondi born and bred.”

How do you spend the first hour of your day?

“I love starting my day with a walk and a swim on the beach at sunrise and try and fit in a meditation too. It sets me up for the rest of the day :)”