Thousands of surfers and swimmers converged on Bondi Beach early Friday morning for a paddle-out tribute to the 15 victims of Sunday’s mass shooting. The emotional gathering saw participants form a vast circle in the ocean, symbolizing community unity and resilience in the face of tragedy.
As the sun rose over Bondi Beach on December 19, 2025, an estimated 2,000 people paddled or swam 200 meters offshore to participate in the tribute. The event, organized by local community leaders including Trent Knox of the 440 Run Club, drew surfers, paddleboarders, swimmers, and even children from the nippers program, all coming together to mourn and show support for the Jewish community affected by the attack. Life-savers and a local rabbi addressed the crowd, while morning walkers paused on the shore to watch the symbolic gathering unfold.
In the calm waters, participants gathered around a white buoy to form a large circle. After a moment of silence, a whistle blew, and the crowd erupted into cheers and splashes, creating a powerful display of solidarity. Larissa Volken, a local surfer, described the energy as “insane,” highlighting how the event reinforced community identity and strength. The circle remained intact as swimmers from nearby beaches like Tamarama and Bronte joined in, swelling the numbers beyond expectations.
Many attendees shared their emotions, with Christophe, a longtime Bondi resident, noting that being back in the water eased tension and fear. “As soon as people were back in their happy place in the water, everything felt better,” he said. Jason Carr, a security consultant, expressed that participating was a way to “bring back the light” after the darkness of the attack, despite initial hesitations due to ongoing grief. Carole Schlessinger, a charity CEO, felt a “beautiful energy” at the gathering, though she also acknowledged feelings of anger and numbness.
The paddle-out was part of a broader outpouring of grief and support following the shooting. Organizers emphasized its significance in bridging gaps within the community. David Solsky, a local Jewish man, remarked on the importance of such events in reducing isolation and fostering connections, thanking the diverse crowd for their presence. Rabbi Joseph Eichenblett helped coordinate the tribute, aiming to send a “shock of positivity” and stand against the violence that had shaken the area.
Beyond the tribute, the community has mobilized in other ways. Over $5 million has been raised through various fundraisers for victims, including $2.5 million for hero Ahmed al-Ahmed, who wrestled a firearm from a gunman. The Police Association of NSW set up appeals for injured officers, raising nearly $750,000. Additionally, more than 25,000 blood donations have been made since the attack, with about 90,000 appointments booked nationwide, demonstrating widespread solidarity.
The Bondi shooting, which occurred during a Hanukkah celebration, has prompted national reflection and calls for action, including discussions on gun control and hate speech laws. The paddle-out served as a poignant reminder of the human cost and the collective will to heal and stand against violence. As participants left the water, they passed signs of ongoing healing onshore, including chalk drawings of a menorah and a bee symbolizing the youngest victim, 10-year-old Matilda.
The event concluded with singing and embraces, underscoring a community determined to move forward together. This tribute not only honored the victims but also reinforced the bonds that define Bondi Beach, offering a moment of catharsis amid the sorrow. With continued support and memorials, the area aims to rebuild while remembering those lost in the tragic attack.
