Mayor condemns horrific violence of Bondi terrorist attack through mayoral minute

Mayor Darrell Tiemens formally condemned what he described as the “horrific and senseless act of violence” carried out at Bondi Beach in December.

Cr Tiemens presented a mayoral minute at the final council meeting of the year, expressing deep sympathy and solidarity with the people of Waverley Council, in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, the Jewish community, and other people affected by the attack.

As reported in the final Courier for 2025, Cr Tiemens also sent a letter on behalf of Narrabri Shire to the local government area.

At last month’s meeting, Cr Tiemens said the shire would not usually get involved in matters beyond the council area, however, this had been an issue that had greatly impacted New South Wales and the nation.

Fifteen victims were killed as a result of the act of terrorism perpetrated by two people. Dozens of people were also injured.

“We know that these types of acts of terror do reverberate to our community,”Cr Tiemens told the meeting.

“I’ve spoken to a number of people … who have felt deep sadness, but also deep fear.

“I had a number of people from Narrabri saying, ‘I don’t even know whether to go down to Sydney over Christmas’.

“This is the type of terror that doesn’t just affect the Jewish community but it also affects the broader Australian community.

“We stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Waverley Council.”

In his official minute, Cr Tiemens said: “Council unequivocally condemns any form of racially or religiously motivated violence. Acts driven by hatred, extremism or prejudice undermine social cohesion and seek to divide communities that have long stood together in peace.”

Cr Greg Lamont spoke in favour of the mayoral minute, saying it was normal practice to reach out to councils impacted by horrific events, such as the terrorist attack as well as major disasters including fires and floods.

“I think this is the proper thing for council to do,” Cr Lamont said.

Cr Tiemens also praised council staff for taking the initiative to ensure flags were flying at half mast on the Monday immediately following the attack.

“It was their own initiative to do that, long before LGNSW called for all councils to do that across this state,” Cr Tiemens said.

“And for that, I really commend the staff.

“They really do care about this community and beyond.”

The mayoral minute was unanimously supported by councillors.