On the first full day since reopening following a mass shooting that killed 15 people at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, thousands of Australians gathered Friday at the iconic waterfront to mourn, reflect, and stand in solidarity with the Jewish community.

In a spontaneously organized event, people lined the crescent of sand shoulder to shoulder and formed a massive circle in the ocean, observing a minute of silence for the victims, the injured, and those who risked their lives to save others. Many embraced and wept near the remnants of crime scene tape and abandoned shoes.

Police reopened parts of the beach Thursday, and armed officers stood guard outside synagogues and mosques amid concerns over antisemitism and potential backlash against Muslims. Life slowly returned to the sand and boardwalk, with joggers, dog walkers, and coffee drinkers reclaiming the area.

Stories of heroism resonated across the nation. Ahmed al Ahmed, an Australian Muslim store owner, disarmed one gunman before being shot by the other, calling for unity and human solidarity from his hospital bed.

Residents also honored Reuven Morrison and Boris and Sofia Gurman, three Jewish victims who confronted the shooters. Nearly 35,000 blood donations have been made since Monday, demonstrating national resolve. Community leaders said the gatherings reflect Australians’ desire to connect and support one another while grappling with grief and outrage.

Bondi Beach lifeguards are set to return Saturday, restoring another symbol of normalcy to the shore.

Source: AP