Ahmed al-Ahmed, a Syrian-born father of two, received a heartfelt standing ovation at the sold-out Ashes Test in Sydney this week. His selfless actions risking his life during the Bondi terror attack on 14th December have made him a local hero. Al-Ahmed bravely disarmed one of two gunmen during the tragic incident, which left the community shaken.
On that tragic night, 14-year-old Chaya Dadon was shot in the leg as she used her body to protect two small children from gunfire. Her fearless move brought focus to the dangers that innocent bystanders experience during these shootings in such a violent epidemic. The community has surrounded her in support though, celebrating the solidarity behind her recovery.
Intensive Care Paramedics Brett Simpson and Andrew Bibby, also of NSW Ambulance, were first on scene and rendered immediate medical aid to victims. Their rapid response made all the difference in saving lives during this terrible tragedy.
The law enforcement response included Detective Sergeant Cole Shanahan and Senior Constable Paul Drinias from NSW Police, who worked diligently to secure the area and apprehend the suspects. Their actions were key in providing immediate reassurance that safety had been returned after such a horrific ordeal.
Medical professionals further laid the groundwork to save lives by treating those impacted. Dr. Matthew Oliver, co-director of trauma at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, alongside Dr. Rachael Wilkes, an emergency registrar at St Vincent’s Hospital, ensured that victims received the necessary medical intervention. As with all projects, their expertise played a huge role in the recovery efforts.
Lifeguards from neighbouring local surf clubs rushed in to help in the tide-turning early response. Leah Trend, Bondi Surf Life Saving Club. Scott Gibbons, North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club. Daniel McLaughlin, coordinator of Waverley lifeguards. All took action to protect their communities in this time of crisis. Jackson Doolan, a committed patroller with Waverley lifeguards, made another big contribution in this endeavor.
The raucous crowd at the recent Ashes Test expressed their appreciation to these heroes. In fact, the ground announcer articulated what most of us felt when he …
“Thank you everybody, thank you for sharing our gratitude for the incredible service that these individuals and many others provided.”
This acknowledgment highlighted the collective respect and admiration for those who acted with bravery and selflessness on that tragic night.