A contentious discussion has emerged regarding the future of a heritage-listed footbridge at Bondi Beach, which was used by the shooters during Australia’s most devastating terror attack. On October 19, 2023, local residents and members of the Jewish community convened for an extraordinary meeting organized by the Waverley Council to weigh in on whether the footbridge should remain standing or be demolished.
Waverley Council Mayor William Nemesh facilitated the meeting, inviting over a dozen speakers to share their perspectives. Many attendees expressed opinions about the two pedestrian bridges at Bondi, particularly focusing on the one that has now become a symbol of the recent tragedy. The incident garnered significant attention, with the first footage of the shooters using the bridge circulating widely on social media.
Calls for Demolition and Preservation
Among those advocating for the bridge’s removal was New South Wales Premier Chris Minns, who has openly supported calls for its demolition. A preliminary structural report from 2024 recommended either demolishing or restoring the heritage-listed bridges “within a few years.” Despite this, several speakers voiced strong opposition to the demolition, arguing it would be a hasty action that capitulates to the “ghoulishness” associated with the attack.
“Those bridges are part of our heritage,” said Bondi local Alison Bevege. “Please don’t punish us for what other people did; it’s not the bridge’s fault.”
Others suggested that the bridges could serve as a permanent memorial, honoring the victims while preserving the community’s identity. Locals Adrienne Kern and Carolyn Saul proposed a restoration project that would incorporate a community-led memorial, suggesting the addition of thousands of white pebbles to replace floral tributes that appeared shortly after the attack.
Community Healing and Future Plans
Speaking on behalf of the Friends of Bondi Pavilion, Nicolette Boaz urged the council to maintain an ongoing consultation process with the community. “These bridges are part of our cherished public spaces,” she noted. “We cannot allow for the violence to stand in the way of a memorial.” Boaz recommended the establishment of a tranquil space for reflection, similar to memorials for the Bali bombing at Coogee Beach and the Port Arthur massacre.
The council has requested estimates on the costs, timelines, and approval processes needed for either replacing or restoring the bridges, which will significantly influence their final decision. Following the community’s feedback on October 19, the council concluded that further consultations with residents and the state government would be necessary before any action is taken.
Deputy Mayor Keri Spooner emphasized the importance of a measured response, stating, “The only thing we should be focusing on is the tragedy. It will take time, deliberation, and consultation.” She assured the community that no immediate actions would be taken.
Many attendees also expressed their desire for a permanent memorial to honor the victims of the attack. Rabbi Shua Solomon articulated a vision for a memorial that embodies “Jewish pride and Jewish life,” suggesting the placement of a menorah as a symbol of resilience and hope. This sentiment resonated with several other speakers throughout the evening.
In addition, there are plans to dedicate space along the iconic Bondi Beach Sea Wall for murals, similar to a tribute for 15-year-old local Chloe Byron, who was a victim of the Bali bombing. The meeting also provided an opportunity for those affected by the attack to share their stories, with some attendees visibly moved as they recounted their experiences.
One survivor, Arsen Ostrovsky, who suffered a bullet wound to the head, described himself as a “survivor of a day that will be seared into our memories.” He remarked that his survival was considered a “miracle” by medical professionals, adding a deeply personal touch to the community’s ongoing healing process.
As discussions continue, the future of the Bondi Beach footbridge remains uncertain, but the commitment of the local community to honor the past while shaping a meaningful future is undeniable.
