The immediate fate of a heritage-listed footbridge at the centre of the Bondi Junction terror attack has been formally deferred, as local authorities pledge a sensitive and thorough consultation process with the families of victims and the wider community.
Council Halts Decision Amid Emotional Debate
During an extraordinary meeting held on Thursday evening, Waverley councillors unanimously agreed to put any decision regarding the pedestrian bridge on hold. The structure was used by the alleged attackers during the tragic events of 14 December, which resulted in the loss of 15 innocent lives.
Deputy Mayor Keri Spooner expressed dismay that the bridge's future had sparked such intense public discussion so soon after the atrocity. "I find it really upsetting that that happened," she stated, emphasising that the focus should remain on the victims and the tragedy itself.
Premier's View and Structural Concerns
The debate was ignited after New South Wales Premier Chris Minns publicly stated his personal view that the bridge should be torn down. He argued this would prevent it from becoming a "ghoulish reminder" or being exploited in the future. However, he acknowledged the council's ultimate responsibility and the importance of the victims' families having the final say.
Mayor Will Nemesh revealed that a structural report commissioned last year found both pedestrian bridges at Bondi Beach were "reaching the end of their useful life and require replacement within several years." He suggested that the replacement of the bridge could form part of a future memorial, but stressed that no decision would be made hastily.
Path Forward: Consultation and Interim Memorials
The council passed a motion directing staff to prepare a report on the costs and approvals needed for replacing or restoring both heritage-listed bridges. Crucially, they agreed that the NSW government would lead discussions about a permanent memorial in consultation with the families, the Council, and the Jewish community.
In the interim, the council approved the installation of dedicated mural panels along the Bondi Beach promenade for one year. They have also already relocated a menorah created by Jewish artist Joel Adler to Archer Park in Bondi to serve as a temporary memorial.
The meeting also honoured the bravery of first responders and civilians. Councillors agreed to nominate Boris and Sofia Gurman and Reuven Morrison for posthumous recognition on the Prime Minister’s special honours list. They further agreed that Ahmed al-Ahmed, Gefen Bitton and Leibel Lazaroff should receive the "keys of the city" for their attempts to apprehend the gunmen.
Community Calls for Bridge to Remain
Prior to the meeting, several community members advocated for the bridge to be retained and transformed. Local Jewish residents Carolyn Saul and Adrienne Kern described it as "integral to the Bondi landscape," proposing it be covered in mosaic tiles with messages of "light, compassion and healing."
This sentiment was echoed by Alex Ryvchin, co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, who said on social media the bridge should stand and "become something the killers would have hated – a tribute to our dead." Heritage advocates also warned against rushed decisions to demolish the structure.
The council has committed to a measured process, ensuring all voices are heard before determining the long-term future of this emotionally charged site.
