Hundreds gather for Shabbat in Bondi

Hundreds of members from the Jewish and broader Waverley communities came together at Bondi Beach on Friday night for a special Shabbat dinner, honouring those affected by the December 14 terrorist attack and celebrating shared values of unity and healing.

The event, co-hosted by Waverley Council and the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies (JBD) at Bondi Pavilion, drew an estimated 300 people, including families of victims, survivors, first responders and representatives of organisations that provided support in the aftermath of the December 14 attack on the Chanukah by the Sea celebration.

Among those present was Ahmed al-Ahmed, the hero who disarmed one of the gunmen.

Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh said the gathering offered a meaningful opportunity to bring the community together through one of Judaism’s most enduring traditions.

“At a time when many are seeking connection, a communal gathering like this was a simple yet profound way to build relationships, bridge generational and cultural divides, and celebrate the rich Jewish heritage that forms part of Waverley’s identity,” he said.