As we approach Christmas 2025, our joy as a nation has been shattered by the horrific terrorism attack at Bondi Beach. To plan and carry out such an act that takes an evil notion, loads it into guns and fires it at innocent people enjoying a holiday in the sun is light years away from what it means to be Australian.
I stand with our country’s Jewish community who have been attacked in the worst possible way. My thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of those who have died and been injured, and the families who fled with their children held in their arms. Their day of celebration has turned into a lifetime of mourning.
It is unimaginable to think that on the shores of Bondi – one of the most famous beaches in the world – Australians were not safe.
What does give us hope at this time of violence and loss is the strength of those who stood for others. Police and emergency services staff were there to end this attack and care selflessly for those who needed it.
And from out of the crowd came heroes, people who sheltered others, who helped while putting their own lives at risk. I will never forget the image of fruit shop owner Ahmed al Ahmed who ran out to face an armed man, wrestling the gun from his arms. This astonishing act of bravery is a true humanity.
Australians come from all walks of life and there is no place for hatred, divisiveness and violence. I stand with Australians to uphold our values of kindness and community. This event serves as a reminder we can never take life for granted.
As the year comes to an end, it’s time to look back on the first seven months as the Member for Parkes – an honour I will always be humbled by.
I’ve met amazing people from across the 407,000 square kilometres that makes up this electorate, whether they are from Narrabri, Lightning Ridge, Parkes, Dubbo, Forbes, Gunnedah, Moree, Coonabarabran, Broken Hill or any of the other great towns included in this part of New South Wales.
I look forward to meeting many more, and representing this great electorate in Parliament and beyond.
My family and I wish you a peaceful Christmas with those you love, and a new year that signals a return to the Australia we all know and love. Remember to travel safely and be mindful of others on the road as we all make our way to get-togethers with family and friends.
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