Overview
- Waverley Council celebrated Ahmed Al Ahmed at a civic ceremony, presenting a key to the city and a lifetime beach parking permit as the NSW Premier praised his bravery in a video message.
- Mayor Will Nemesh said the permit is the council’s highest recognition, noting Al Ahmed is only the second person ever to receive a lifetime beach parking pass.
- NSW Governor Margaret Beazley lauded his “courage beyond courage” and presented a governor’s coin and a Christmas ornament as symbolic gifts.
- Al Ahmed had crept up behind and disarmed a gunman during the December 14 Hanukkah event at Archer Park, was shot several times, and underwent multiple surgeries at St George Hospital.
- The attack killed 15 people, including a 10-year-old, and Al Ahmed told attendees he still feels deep sorrow but urged people to stand together for peace.