Here to stay! Byron Baes cast get frisky as they strip down to film scenes at the beach in winter - as controversial Netflix show continues production despite angering locals
Netflix's influencer-led reality show Byron Baes has been plagued by waves of backlash from local residents and Indigenous leaders.
But the cast looked anything but downtrodden as they filmed outdoor scenes at Shelly Beach on Monday.
Despite the plummeting winter temperatures, the glamorous influencers looked completely at ease as they galavanted on the sand in skimpy swimwear.
Bombshell: The cast of Byron Baes, including Lauren Bell (pictured), were spotted filming scenes for the controversial Netflix reality show on Shelly Beach
During the filming session, cast-members were filmed spending time socialising on the sand, posing for selfies, and hitting the waves for a surf.
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Producers and camera operators meanwhile swarmed the beach, making sure to capture every single moment of TV gold.
Among the genetically-blessed cast was Elias Chigros, who rose to fame on Love Island Australia back in 2018.
Style: Lauren was the epitome of chic in a white bra and a pair of cream linen pants
Shady lady: Sarah St James entered the scene in an orange bra and pair of shorts
Perfect pout! Her luscious pout was on full display for all to see
Elias, who goes by the online moniker Elias Black, flaunted his ripped physique in a wetsuit as he went surfing with fellow cast-member and model Lauren Bell.
The pair looked like they were having a whale of a time as they carried their surfboards down the shore together.
Lauren meanwhile showcased her long legs in a black swimming costume, while allowing her sopping blonde mane to fall loosely by her shoulders.
Peace out! The bubbly brunette flashed a double peace sign for the cameras
Beaming: Instagram model Elias flashed a big smile on the sand
Time to dry off? The former Love Island Australia star waved a towel around
She later stripped down to a white bikini while wrapping up from the cold in a blue-and-white beach towel.
At one stage, Lauren was also spotted catching up with fellow castmate Nathan Favro, who is best remembered for his stints on The Bachelorette and Bachelor In Paradise.
Nathan also carried a surfboard, and showed off his physique in a long-sleeved rash vest and printed board shorts.
No go: Last month, according to independent newspaper Echo, the Byron Council 'passed an urgency motion' that would require producers to get permission before any further filming
Speaking to the paper, independent Councillor Cate Coorey said: 'We need to stand up for our community.'
Piggyback! Sarah jumped on Alex's back and allowed him to carry her through the shore
Sunny days: The pair were having the time of their lives on the beach
Byron Bay's traditional owners have rejected a donation offer from Netflix amid controversy over their planned influencer reality series, Byron Baes.
The donation was offered following an outcry that the streaming giant had not consulted with local Indigenous groups before planning the series.
In a statement issued last month, The Arakwal Corporation, representing the Bundjalung people of Byron Bay, revealed they unanimously agreed to 'not accept a donation from Eureka Productions or Netflix'.
Pucker up: Lauren and Alex shared a kiss together as they stood on a footpath
How romantic! Lauren twirled and flirted with pal Alex by the green grass
Showing off? Lauren pulled her pants down a bit to show Alex something
Fun times! Alex Reid picked Lauren up in his arms and swung her around for fun
'We were not consulted prior to the filming of Season 1 of Byron Baes or consulted before the production was announced,' the statement read.
'We are not in agreement with the nature of the series concept as it does not respect our community, cultural practices and values.'
According to Sydney Morning Herald, Netflix confirmed that they did indeed offer a donation but that per a source, 'the sum was not large'.
Wild thing! He soaked up the spotlight by giving the middle finger to the cameras
Trouble: The lively reality star made some outrageous gestures in the sand
Thirsty? Sarah St James and a friend enjoyed beers on the beach
Hello! Elle Watson was waving at a friend as she walked along the beach
Bored? The ladies looked bored as they waited for filming to resume
Chit chat: Lauren was spotted with co-star Elle Watson, who wore sunglasses and a hat
In May, according to independent newspaper Echo, the Byron Council 'passed an urgency motion' that would require producers to get permission before any further filming.
Speaking to the paper, independent Councillor Cate Coorey said: 'We need to stand up for our community.'
'They haven’t sought clearances, they haven’t considered the relevant stakeholders, and so far we’ve seen no consultation, and yet filming has gone ahead,' she added.
Not mincing words, Deputy Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said: 'This corporation, Netflix, has basically come in and s**t on us'
Anticipated: Byron Baes is one of the most anticipated shows coming to Netlix
Stars: Co-creative director of local boutique BISQUE Hannah Brauer will also appear, alongside Byron Bay 'It couple' Dave Frim and Saskia Wotton
Not happy: Byron Bay's traditional owners have rejected a donation offer from Netflix amid controversy over their planned influencer reality series, Byron Baes
Just hanging out: Nathan and Dave Frim relaxed on the beach
Producers may now be forced to seek permission before any further filming can take place, which includes filming on both private property or public spaces.
Not mincing words, Deputy Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said: 'This corporation, Netflix, has basically come in and s**t on us.'
While the Council have kicked up a fuss, the Byron Baes production could fall into the Ultra Low Impact category as outlined in the Local Government Filming Protocol.
Surf's up! The leggy blonde held a large surfboard underneath her arm
Slim: The blonde beauty showed off her trim figure and long legs in a wetsuit
All smiles: Lauren flashed a beaming smile as she chatted with Nathan Favro
A little help? A production assistant stepped forward to adjust a detail on Nathan's wetsuit
Lights, camera, action! A large crew stood around to film scenes for the reality show
Ultra Low Impact means there are ten or less people in the cast and crew.
If Byron Baes meets this requirement, then they would not require filming permits from the Council.
Joining the cast are former reality stars Nathan Favro, from The Bachelorette, and Elias Chigros, from Love Island Australia.
Selfie time: The cast whipped out their mobile phones to snap some cute selfies
Retro: Photographer and model Cai Leplaw sported a classic '80s mullet and jet black dyed hair
Permission: Producers may now be forced to seek permission before any further filming can take place, which includes filming on both private property or public spaces
'They haven’t sought clearances, they haven’t considered the relevant stakeholders, and so far we’ve seen no consultation, and yet filming has gone ahead,' Corey added
Cast photo! The cast sat down to get a group photo together
Crew: There was a large crew assembled to shoot the show
Co-creative director of local boutique BISQUE Hannah Brauer will also appear, alongside Byron Bay 'It couple' Dave Frim and Saskia Wotton.
Others in the cast include investment company employee Elle Watson, influencer Jade Kevin Foster and spiritualistic therapist Simba Ali.
Rounding out the cast is Kyle Sandilands' former assistant-turned-manager Alex Reid, fashion designer Jess Bell and her model sister Lauren.
Wet and wild! Lauren Bell and Elias Chigros filmed scenes for Netflix's Byron Baes on Monday
