Bondi shooting heroes and victims join Sydney’s elite at SCG Ashes Test
Paramedics, police and hero Ahmed al-Ahmed were recognised with a guard of honour at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Heroes who put their lives at risk to save others during the Bondi mass shooting, along with the victims of the tragedy, were recognised in a tribute on day one of Sydney’s Ashes Test on Sunday.
Ahmed al Ahmed, who suffered five gunshot wounds while tackling one of the Bondi shooters, was honoured before play. With his arm in a sling after undergoing three rounds of surgery, he chanted “Aussie Aussie Aussie” after walking through the guard of honour at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Ahmed al Ahmed, the hero of Bondi, was recognised alongside first responders at the SCG.Credit: Getty Images
First responders, including intensive care paramedics, NSW police officers, hospital and SES staff, lifeguards and lifesavers, and 14-year-old Chaya Dadon, who shielded two young children with her body during the attack, and was wounded while doing so, were also recognised.
Also, fan rivalry was put aside outside the ground before a ball had been bowled when famous Australian supporters group The Richies teamed up with England’s Barmy Army to promote the McGrath Foundation and the Pink Test, which raises awareness and funds for cancer treatment. They were joined by the Sydney Philharmonia Choir, 80 of whom were dressed in McGrath Day pink.
Glenn McGrath, the husband of the late Jane McGrath, who died in 2008 as a result of cancer, was there to witness the singing, which wowed the crowds that had gathered.
The Richies, a group in which fans dress as legendary cricket commentator Richie Benaud, have been a fixture on day two of the past 16 New Year’s Tests at the SCG. They have announced that this year will be their last as a collective.
McGrath Foundation, The Richies and The Barmy Army with The Sydney Philharmonic Choir at SCG.Credit: Oscar Colman
With the SCG stands packed and tickets rare, cricket fans started queuing as early as 5am to secure seats. Any invitation to a private box or suite for the opening day of the New Year’s Test was gratefully accepted by the high-flyers of the business, political and sporting worlds.
