Opinion: North Bondi Mass Shooting
At DNA, we are shocked and saddened by the mass shooting that took place on Sunday evening, December 16. We extend our condolences to all those affected by this tragedy, particularly the Jewish community, who were celebrating the start Hanukkah, and to all Bondi residents.
Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese has condemned the attack as an “act of evil antisemitism”, declaring the nation will never submit to “division, violence or hatred”.
After an urgent meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) last night, Mr Albanese said he believed a “moment of national unity” would arise from the “vile act of violence” and Australians would embrace Jewish members of the community.
“There are nights that tear at the nation’s soul. In this moment of darkness, we must be each other’s light,” he said, adding that an attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on all Australians.
Allegra Spender, the Federal MP for Wentworth, which includes Bondi, says the police are working to establish further details of what happened but have been clear that the attackers, a father and son, acted alone and there is no ongoing threat to the community.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon says, “This is a time of calm, this is a time when we must make sure there is no retribution. The police are investigating thoroughly. We have acted promptly.”
The location of the shooting at North Bondi will be familiar to many Sydneysiders, Australians and those who have visited the beach in their travels. While it is sometimes referred to as “the gay end of Bondi”, it would be more accurate to describe it as an inclusive, accepting and diverse location, where everyone is welcome. In many ways, it symbolises the success of Australian multiculturalism.
This devastating attack does not reflect the views and values of broader Australia, and at DNA, we reiterate the call of the PM to embrace the Jewish community and call for calm.
