HomeAUHonoring Heroes: SCG Pays Tribute to Bondi Terror Attack First Responders

Honoring Heroes: SCG Pays Tribute to Bondi Terror Attack First Responders

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Before day one of play at the SCG, the Australia and England teams lined up in a guard of honour for 14 people who represented emergency services as well as members of the public who put their lives on the line to save others.
They included Ahmed Al Ahmed, who wrestled and disarmed one of the gunmen, and Jackson Doolan and Daniel McLaughlin, representing lifeguards at Bondi Beach who acted quickly to save lives.
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 04: during day one of the Fifth Test in the 2025/26 Ashes Series between Australia and England at Sydney Cricket Ground on January 04, 2026 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
The heroes and first responders were given a standing ovation by the 48,000 people in attendance at the SCG. (Getty)

The atmosphere at the Sydney Cricket Ground was electric as heroes graced the pitch, drawing a heartfelt and thunderous standing ovation from the players, officials, and a crowd of 48,000 spectators.

Before any action commenced, a solemn moment of silence was observed to honor the 15 victims of last month’s tragic attack, a poignant reminder of the lives lost.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 04: during day one of the Fifth Test in the 2025/26 Ashes Series between Australia and England at Sydney Cricket Ground on January 04, 2026 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
Jackson Doolan and Daniel McLaughlin represented Bondi Lifeguards, who acted quickly and selflessly to offer aid to victims whilst the shooting was going on. (Getty)

Among those receiving this tribute was Al Ahmed, the last to walk through the guard of honor. His left arm remained in a sling, a stark reminder of the injuries he sustained when he was shot.

Al Ahmed endured a challenging period at St George Hospital, where he spent over two weeks and underwent surgery on his shoulder to aid in his recovery.

Finally, on December 29, Al Ahmed was discharged from the hospital, marking a significant step in his journey toward healing.

Ahmed Al-Ahmed has been made an honourary Bondi Lifeguard after putting his life on the line to save others.
Ahmed Al-Ahmed has been made an honourary Bondi Lifeguard after putting his life on the line to save others. (Getty)
Bondi Lifeguards thanked Cricket Australia for the touching ceremony.

“As lifeguards, we are incredibly proud to make Ahmed al-Ahmed an honorary member of the Bondi Lifeguards, recognising his selfless heroics that helped save lives,” a post said.

“Thank you… for your tribute to the first responders, and for once again allowing a moment’s silence in honour of the families affected by the Bondi attack.”

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