Thousands Abandon Belongings at Bondi Beach After Deadly Terrorist Attack
December 15, 2025
Thousands of Australians left their belongings at Bondi Beach after fleeing a terrorist attack that killed 15 people at a Hanukah celebration. The attack shocked Sydney and the nation. By morning, locals gathered towels, surfboards, and bags, placing them where survivors and families could collect them. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese laid pink flowers at the scene, standing in silence with mourners. Rabbi Yossi Friedman prayed where his friend was killed, saying, “We will bounce back. I don’t know how … but like we’ve always done we will gather together and come back strong.” Community members supported each other with prayers, hugs, and free coffee. At the same time, anger grew toward Palestine advocates and the government for not acting against antisemitism, noted by David Ossip, president of the New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies. The attack also claimed the life of a non-Jew and left many fleeing for safety. Survivor Paco Chumacero recalled how the shooters targeted the festival, ignoring others nearby, and praised Ahmed al-Ahmed who stopped a gunman. Chumacero returned to mourn, saying, “Even now, I’m scared. I come here, I cry, it’s terrifying.” Sydney closed several Jewish schools; flowers and candles appeared throughout Bondi, as people of different faiths expressed solidarity. Support hotlines are available for those affected: Beyond Blue, Lifeline, and Griefline in Australia, and Mind in the UK.
Read More at Theguardian →
Tags:
Bondi Beach
Terrorist Attack
Australian Shooting
Jewish Community
Mourning
Support
Comments