15/12/2025
Like so many people, the act of senseless violence at Bondi Beach last evening has left me and the Lions Australia community saddened, that a happy Sunday evening turned to tragedy for so many families, and appalled that such a situation has occurred.
Lions Clubs International Purposes include:
· To create and foster a spirit of understanding among the people of the world.
· To promote the principles of good government and good citizenship.
As such, we condemn such acts of violence as we saw yesterday. Acts that are driven by hatred, lack of understanding or philosophy differences have no place in Australian society.
Amongst the horror, we have heard about so many people who without thinking, helped out – whether disarming the gunman, providing first aid and medical assistance, shielding children, providing moral or financial support and so much more. These people deserve our gratitude and respect.
They are heroes without a cape.
To the First Responders - your courage, professionalism and caring is tested every day, but no more than yesterday. Thank you – for yesterday, and for what you do every day.
Our thoughts are with the families who lost loved ones. We wish the injured a speedy and complete recovery. And we hope the memories of the tragedy fade over time, but memories of the people who moved towards the violence to assist remain.
It is a fitting tribute to those who lost their lives, lost loved ones or suffered injuries if we choose love over hatred, compassion over anger and respect and understanding over division.
Richard Williams
Lions National Chairperson
