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Security guard stood down after 'unacceptable' bikini incident

Days after a Sydney woman shared her story about being told by a security guard at her own apartment complex that her bikini was unacceptable attire, the apartment building's management has revealed they have "stood down" the guard involved.

A statement regarding the "bikini incident" involving Kristy Miller was posted to a Facebook group of Emerald Park, Zetland residents and shared with Yahoo Lifestyle.

Days after a Sydney woman shared her story about being told by a security guard at her own apartment complex that her bikini was unacceptable attire, the apartment building's management has revealed they have "stood down" the guard involved. Photo: Nine
After a Sydney woman shared her story about being told by a security guard at her apartment complex that her bikini was unacceptable attire, the apartment building's management has revealed they have "stood down" the guard involved. Photo: Nine

Kristy had been spending her day off by the pool when a security guard confronted her, "I was in my bikini sunbathing when I was approached by security and told my swimwear wasn't appropriate and to go and put some shorts on if I wanted to stay at the pool," she told A Current Affair.

She was shocked after being told her swimwear was "too cheeky" and that she should've been wearing a "full brief".

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"I just think it is crazy that security guards are patrolling pools, looking at women's bikini bottoms and judging whether they think it is suitable or not. What gives them the right?" Kristy said.

"There are no rules for men, not once did they go and attack any man. Men were fine to wear speedos, but women's bikini bottoms are not okay."

After taking to a local community Facebook group, Kristy received a number of messages saying they've experienced similar treatment over the last three years.

Building Management Committee has"apologised unreservedly" to Kristy, adding she "did nothing wrong and the way she was treated was completely unfair and unacceptable". Photo: Nine
Building Management Committee has"apologised unreservedly" to Kristy, adding she "did nothing wrong and the way she was treated was completely unfair and unacceptable". Photo: Nine

"Several women have felt attacked or victimised — women have even moved out of the complex. Another woman is now banned from the pool area," she said.

The statement shared on Facebook revealed that the Building Management Committee had "apologised unreservedly" to Kristy, adding she "did nothing wrong and the way she was treated was completely unfair and unacceptable".

They added that the actions of the security guard were "indefensible and don't reflect either the bylaws of Emerald Park, or the views of the Building Management Committee or our residents".

They also revealed that the signage requesting no G-strings or topless sunbathing that had been erected at the pool area was "unauthorised" and put up without consent. The signs have since been removed.

The statement continued, revealing the Building Management Committee doesn't endorse the actions of the security guard concerned or the subsequent comments made to Kristy.

The original response Kristy received was not endorsed by the Building Management Committee. Photo: Nine
The original response Kristy received was not endorsed by the Building Management Committee. Photo: Nine

"We have launched a comprehensive investigation into all security arrangements, protocols and training (including the contract of the security company involved) and all relevant bylaws to ensure they are clear and understood by all relevant stakeholders."

"We will do everything we can to ensure that nothing like this ever happens again at Emerald Park," the statement finished.

New signs have been put up around the pool and BBQ area of the apartment building.

The new signs do not make mention of G-strings and instead ask that residents are "adequately clothed"

A resident of the complex spoke to Yahoo Lifestyle on Saturday, revealing the "huge impact" of Kristy's story.

"Kristy’s perseverance and courage to speak out and bring the issue to light on a national level (where the Prime Minister even weighed in) has made a huge impact.

New rules have since been put up near the pool. Photo: Supplied
New rules have since been put up near the pool. Photo: Supplied

"I know I’m not the only one relieved that we can now relax and enjoy the pools and BBQ areas without worrying who is looking on - as should be the case."

On Thursday, Prime Minister Scott Morrison spoke about the controversy, "I thought they always could (wear what they want) I was not aware that any of that had been constricted," he said on 2GB.

"I’m surprised that it even applied. I tell you what though, as the father of daughters I might have some dress standards and conditions, but that’s for the family."

The resident told Yahoo Lifestyle on Thursday: "I'm so glad that Kristy has spoken out about this topic. The complex is very secure which is great, but with that we should be allowed to relax and enjoy the pools provided.

The BBQ policy now allows for music as well as parties with prior consent. Photo: Supplied
The BBQ policy now allows for music as well as parties with prior consent. Photo: Supplied

"There's an awesome BBQ area which is perfect for entertaining, yet no alcohol - or even music (no matter how quiet) - is allowed there.

“It's about time some of these rules were relaxed, as it seems such a shame, especially at the moment when connection means everything."

It appears that some of these rules have also been changed with no mention of music being made in the new signs.

Yahoo Lifestyle has reached out to Emerald Park’s Building Management Committee for comment.

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