Thousands of surfers gathered at Bondi Beach on Friday morning to pay tribute to the victims of the Bondi attack, participating in an emotional paddle out at the site where the shooting occurred.
Members of the Bondi surfing community came together at 6.30am to honour those impacted by Sunday’s attack, sending a message of unity and solidarity.
Local surfing and running groups organised the paddle out, with participants meeting in front of the North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club, just metres from where a gunman opened fire on a crowd celebrating Hanukkah by the Sea.
In moving scenes, thousands assembled on the sand before entering the water together.
Those who did not feel confident enough to surf remained on shore, embracing one another along the promenade.
Bondi Boardriders announced the paddle out on Thursday, encouraging the community to come together and reclaim the beach “in this time of darkness”.
“Tomorrow as the sun rises over our beautiful beach, a few local surfers have organised a paddle out,” Bondi Boardriders wrote on Instagram on Thursday.
“For those that are not capable or confident surfers, please line the shore and prom in support of one another.
“Those in the water, please keep an eye on those next to you, as this is a hard time for all.
“Bondi stands together!”
Ahead of the event, the group shared a message calling for unity within the community.
“In this time of darkness, let’s spread light, love and compassion through our shared love of the ocean and our beautiful Bondi Beach,” the message read.
“Come together to honour the lives lost, pray for those on the journey to recovery and express gratitude to our brave first responders.
“All welcome. Diversity is our strength.”
The Four Forty Run Club echoed these sentiments, describing the paddle out as a moment for the community to come together in reflection and support.
“Our Bondi community is still reeling from the senseless act of violence at our beloved beach,” the group said.
“While the attack was directed at the Jewish community, its impact has been felt by all of us – shaking our shared sense of safety, trust, and peace.”
Images: Nine
