Councils urged to assist recovery

Councils across NSW are being encouraged to move beyond symbolic gestures and donate directly to the recovery effort in the Waverley community following the Bondi Beach terrorist attack.

Local Government NSW president Mayor Darcy Byrne said councils had shown remarkable solidarity in the weeks after the attack, highlighted by a joint laying of tributes on December 18 that brought together mayors from as far away as Orange, the Tweed and Kiama.

“I’ve been completely blown away by the compassion and solidarity expressed by Mayors and Councillors across the state for the community of Bondi and Waverley Council,” Byrne said.

“As councils are now about to start meeting for the first time since the attack, many of their leaders have asked us how they can provide some practical assistance to our friends in Waverley.”

Byrne said LGNSW was working with Waverley Council to identify the best way for councils to donate to the local community recovery, with confirmed details expected in the first weeks of February.

Waverley mayor Will Nemesh thanked councils for their outpouring of support since the attack.

“The outpouring of support and solidarity shown by Mayors and Councils across Australia has been incredibly moving and greatly appreciated,” Nemesh said.

“We are so thankful for those who have sent messages and provided both moral and practical support. It has meant so much to us.”

Nemesh said the community remained united in its determination to move forward.

“This has been an incredibly challenging time for our community, but united, we will not give in to fear,” he said.

Byrne and Nemesh have filmed a joint video message thanking councils across the state for their support and solidarity, and promising further details shortly on how councils can contribute to the recovery effort.