The City of Casey’s Mayor has released a statement after the Bondi Beach shooting attack that occurred on Sunday afternoon — taking the lives of 15 victims, including a 10 year old girl.
The harrowing massacre has been ruled as a terror attack by Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese after two gunmen, a father and son, opened fire at a Chanukah event on Sydney’s most popular beach.
Out of respect, the Mayor stated that the Casey Council’s flag, along with flags across Australia, will be lowered to half-mast.
In his statement, Mayor Stefan Koomen said his thoughts were with the victims, their families and loved ones.
“Like many people, I woke up this morning still trying to make sense of what happened,” said the Mayor on social media.
“Our community shares in the shock and sadness felt across Australia.”
As well as the measures taken by bystanders, he also commended the swift actions of emergency services.
“In those first moments, the actions of police and bystanders showed extraordinary bravery, putting others ahead of themselves,” he said.
“It is moments like these that reflect who we are, even on the darkest of days.
“As a mark of respect, Council flags have been lowered to half-mast in recognition of this tragedy, the lives lost, and all those impacted across our community.
“Our community is strong.
“We will not allow fear or hatred to divide us, and we will continue to look out for one another — that is who we are.”
Victoria’s Premier, Jacinta Allan, also released a statement not long after the attack, relaying a stern message to the Jewish community.
“To Jewish Victorians: you should never have to carry fear in this country,” said the Premier.
“You belong here, fully, safely and without questions – and we will do everything in our power to make sure you are safe.”
Julian Hill, MP for Bruce and Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs, said an “attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian”, urging the community to check on their Jewish friends.
“Bondi Beach is a global symbol of Australia’s way of life. And the task of every leader in every sphere in the days ahead must be to bring people together,” said the local MP.
“For non-Jewish Australians, please reach out to your Jewish friends and wrap the community in love.
“Many people will feel like retreating from the horror of such dehumanising attacks.
“We must collectively affirm the rightful place Jewish Australians have in our communities and national life, now and forever.”
NSW Premier, Chris Minns, told a press conference in the early hours of Monday morning that those wanting to do something “practical” amid this tragedy can give blood.
Lifeblood Australia, the organisation responsible for collecting blood donations across Australia, have said they have already transferred blood from several states to Sydney.
