Ahmed Al Ahmed, the man who disarmed one of the gunmen during the Bondi terror attack last December, has been awarded a key to the city and a lifetime beach parking pass by Waverley Council. The 43-year-old father-of-two was also given two gifts from the New South Wales governor at a ceremony held at Bondi Beach.
Mr Ahmed went viral after footage showed him sneaking up behind one of two gunmen at a Hanukkah celebration called Chanukah by the Sea at Archer Park. He wrestled a long-barrelled gun away from the attacker but was shot several times, requiring multiple surgeries at St George Hospital. Fifteen people were killed in the attack, including a 10-year-old child.
Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh said Mr Ahmed's actions 'have become synonymous with heroism and the bravery of ordinary Australians'. He added: 'When confronted by hatred in the worst form, you acted with urgency and unflinching resolve.'
Governor Margaret Beazley presented Mr Ahmed with a governor's coin and a Christmas decoration, noting his injuries and comparing his actions to the surf lifesaving motto: 'Whomsoever you see in distress, recognise in them a fellow human being.'
Mr Ahmed expressed sadness over the attack, saying his 'heart cries' for what happened. He urged others to act bravely, stating: 'If you have a heart and if you are Australian, and when you see someone evil come to hurt your people, are you going to stand and watch and look?'
