Mayor, MPs express shock at Bondi Beach terrorist attack

Civic leaders have expressed their shock following the tragic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach, Sydney, that has resulted in the death of 15 victims.

The shooting at the well-known eastern suburbs beach occurred during a large Hanukkah celebration on Sunday evening. Dozens of victims were injured in the incident, some with critical injuries.

One of the gunmen was shot dead at the scene and another was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

In a letter to Waverley Shire Council, Narrabri Shire Council mayor Darrell Tiemens conveyed the shire’s “deepest condolences” to the community following the “horrific and senseless attack at Bondi”.

“What should have been a place of joy, safety and everyday life was instead marked by violence that has shaken communities far beyond Waverley. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, those injured, and all who witnessed or were affected by this tragic event,” Cr Tiemens wrote.

“Regional communities like ours may be far from Bondi geographically, but we feel this deeply. Moments like this remind us how closely connected our communities truly are, and how important it is that we stand together in the face of such cruelty.

“Please know that the people of Narrabi Shire stand with you, your council, and the broader Waverley community at this very difficult time.”

In a statement, Member for Barwon Roy Butler said he was deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic events that unfolded in Bondi at the weekend.

“This senseless act of violence has no place in our society. The disregard for human life is abhorrent, and my heart goes out to all those affected,” Mr Butler said. “My thoughts remain firmly with the victims, their families, and the first responders and medical teams who continue to work tirelessly in the aftermath of this tragedy. I stand united with our community in condemning this act of hate and reaffirm my commitment to supporting those impacted.

“We must not allow such acts to divide us. Instead, I urge everyone to come together in solidarity, compassion, and resilience. This is a time to support one another and uphold the values that bind us together. When horrific events like this occur, there is often a risk of copycat offences. There is zero tolerance for such ignorance, destruction and violence.”

Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey said as Christmas quickly approaches, the nation’s joy had been shattered by the “horrific terrorism attack”.

“To plan and carry out such an act that takes an evil notion, load it into guns and fires it at innocent people enjoying a holiday in the sun is light years away from what it means to be
Australian,” Mr Chaffey said.

“I stand with our country’s Jewish community who have been attacked in the worst possible way. My thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of those who have died and been injured, and the families who fled with their children held in their arms. Their day of celebration has turned into a lifetime of mourning.

“It is unimaginable to think that on the shores of Bondi – one of the most famous beaches in the world – Australians were not safe.

“What does give us hope at this time of violence and loss is the strength of those who stood for others. Police and emergency services staff were there to end this attack and care selflessly for those who needed it.

“And from out of the crowd came heroes, people who sheltered others, who helped while putting their own lives at risk. I will never forget the image of fruit shop owner Ahmed al Ahmed who ran out to face an armed man, wrestling the gun from his arms.

“This astonishing act of bravery is a true humanity.

“Australians come from all walks of life and there is no place for hatred, divisiveness and violence.

“I stand with Australians to uphold our values of kindness and community.”