Sydney Swans to honour Bondi victims and first responders

The Sydney Swans will hold a tribute to the victims of the Bondi Beach terror attack ahead of their AFL Opening Round match against Carlton on Thursday, 5 March at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Before the first bounce, players from both teams will link arms while the stadium observes a minute’s silence. Supporters attending the match have been asked to be in their seats by about 7.20pm so they can take part in the tribute before the 7.30pm start.

The ceremony will also recognise a group of first responders and community members who played a role in assisting victims during the attack.

Representatives from several organisations will be acknowledged on the field, including NSW Ambulance, frontline hospital staff, Waverley Council lifeguards, Surf Life Saving NSW, NSW Police, the NSW State Emergency Service, Community Health Support responders, and the Jewish emergency response organisation Hatzolah. Ahmed Al Ahmed will be honoured as a community hero for his actions during the crisis.

The ceremony comes nearly three months after the 14 December 2025 terrorist attack during a Chanukah gathering at Bondi Beach when terrorists opened fire on the celebration. Fifteen people were killed and dozens injured in what authorities described as an antisemitic attack targeting the Jewish community.

The Sydney Swans said the tribute reflects the club’s close connection to the eastern suburbs community.

“On behalf of the Sydney Swans, we are deeply shocked and shattered with the heartbreaking events that transpired at Bondi Beach,” the club said in a statement following the tragedy.

“Our players and staff attend Bondi Beach regularly, and we are so well connected to the community that we feel their pain today.”

At the time, Swans chief executive, Tom Harley also expressed solidarity with the Jewish community.

“To our Jewish community, we are feeling for you and send our sincere condolences to all in your community. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families at this tragic time.”

AFL chairman Richard Goyder and chief executive Andrew Dillon said the league stood with those affected.

“Our hearts are with all those affected by the tragic events in Bondi,” they said in a joint statement.

In the days after the attack, members of the club visited the memorial outside Bondi Pavilion, where thousands of flowers, candles and messages were placed in memory of the victims.

Thursday night’s tribute continues a series of commemorations held across Australia since the attack, with sporting events, vigils and community gatherings honouring those who lost their lives.