Statement from the Mayor
A sea of flowers is growing by the day beside the sands of Bondi Beach, as people from all walks of life gather to pay their respects to the innocent lives lost in Sunday’s terror attack.
The memorial site is eerily quiet. The only sounds are the crashing of the waves and the squawking of the seagulls, in stark contrast to the cries for help and the panic of those fleeing the two gunmen, who were firing indiscriminately at anyone in their sights.
As the days pass, more and more stories emerge of the lives lost and the heroic acts of bystanders, first responders and police.
Stories like Ahmed al-Ahmed who pounced on one of the gunmen and wrestled his gun from him, or 10-year-old Matilda who was killed as she enjoyed the festivities with her parents and sister, or the first police officer shot as they pulled up to help.
There are many other stories of people putting themselves in harm’s way as they shielded lost children and the elderly from flying bullets.
It was a dark day in our nation’s history and a day that must unite us as a community.
On behalf of our City, we condemn this senseless act of terror and decry antisemitism and hate in all its forms.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all the victims and their families, and to all those who played a role in helping others.
While I know words cannot ease the pain, I extend my condolences to the Jewish community, the people of Bondi and the Mayor of Waverley Council.
As a mark of respect, we will continue to fly our City’s flags at half-mast during this mourning period.
For anyone who needs support, or would like to sign an online condolence book, the NSW Government has set up a dedicated web page
May they rest in peace.
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