‘No community in this country should live in fear’: Clubs across the country respond to Bondi tragedy with tributes planned at upcoming matches

Sporting organisations across the country have sent messages of support to the communities affected by Sunday’s tragic terrorist attack in Bondi that has claimed the lives of 16 people, with several media opportunities cancelled on Monday. Players from BBL side the Sydney Sixers were playing in Perth as the tragedy unfolded, with Cricket Australia easing their strict anti-corruption rules to allow them to use their phones to check in with families and loved ones who may have been in the area. Monday night’s BBL game in Geelong is likely to feature some form of tribute to the victims, while the Sixers are also working out details for Wednesday night when they host their next match. It will be played at the SCG, a 12-minute drive from Bondi Beach, with the club boasting strong ties to the eastern suburbs community. NRL powerhouse the Roosters is the eastern suburbs team, with their headquarters in Bondi Junction near the Westfield shopping centre where another shocking attack took place in 2024. “The Sydney Roosters are deeply saddened by the tragic events that unfolded at Bondi Beach yesterday,” a club statement read. “Bondi Beach is an iconic place for our city and our community, and this targeted attack on the first night of Chanukah is devastating. “Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, the Jewish community and everyone affected. “We extend our sincere gratitude to the first responders and emergency service personnel whose bravery, professionalism, and swift action made a critical difference under extraordinarily challenging circumstances. “No community in this country should live in fear.” Fierce rivals the Rabbitohs delivered a powerful message of support for the Jewish community. “The thoughts and prayers of the Rabbitohs are with the victims, their families, and all those impacted by the tragic events at Bondi yesterday, particularly members of Australia’s Jewish community,” the Rabbitohs posted on social media. “We stand in solidarity with them and extend our deepest sympathies to those affected at this difficult time.” Cricket NSW shared a similar message and cancelled a media opportunity on Monday morning to launch the official opening of Cricket Central following the end of stage 2 works. Minister for Sport Steve Kamper was set to be in attendance. The St George Illawarra Dragons were also scheduled to hold a major press conference on Monday morning, but the club made the call to postpone. Clubs outside of Sydney have also made the call to delay media commitments, with AFL champions the Brisbane Lions sending this message to journalists. “Out of respect due to yesterday’s tragic Bondi Beach shootings, we have made the call as a club not to proceed with today’s planned media opportunity,” the Lions said. “Our thoughts go out to all those involved in the shootings and hope that none of you or your loved ones are impacted.” The Queensland Rugby League postponed an event on Monday morning to unveil the 2026 State of Origin jersey. Other clubs put out messages of support. “We are thinking of everyone affected by the Bondi tragedy this evening,” AFL club the Sydney Swans posted on social media on Sunday night. “Bondi is part of our community and we are deeply saddened by these events. We are sending condolences to all and our thoughts and thanks are also with NSW emergency service personnel.”