Temporary Memorial Established in Archer Park For Victims of Bondi Beach Attack

A temporary memorial has been established in Archer Park at Bondi Beach to honour the victims of the December terror attack, with Waverley Council confirming the installation earlier this week.

The memorial features a solar-powered chanukiah, which was relocated from Dover Heights to Archer Park on Tuesday 5 January. The installation is intended as a place for quiet reflection while longer-term planning continues for a permanent memorial.

Waverley Council said the artwork had previously been commissioned as a public artwork for Chanukah celebrations and was designed by Jewish artist Joel Adler, in partnership with the Jewish Climate Network.

Mayor Will Nemesh said the symbolism of the artwork made it an appropriate temporary tribute following the attack.

“Chanukah is the story of light triumphing over darkness, and this chanukiah is a reminder that even in dark times, the bright spirit of our community will shine through,” Nemesh said.

Archer Park chosen for site of Bondi attack memorial

Council said in a press release that Archer Park was selected due to its proximity to the site of the attack and its accessibility to the public, allowing community members to visit the memorial, leave flowers, stones or messages, and spend time reflecting.

The memorial is explicitly temporary, with council confirming that discussions around a permanent memorial are ongoing and will involve consultation with families of victims, community groups and relevant stakeholders.

“This installation provides a respectful place for remembrance while we take the time required to consider a permanent memorial that appropriately honours those who lost their lives,” council said in a statement.

Since the attack, Archer Park and surrounding areas have become informal sites of mourning, with community members leaving flowers, notes and other tributes in the weeks following the incident. Council has previously confirmed that items left by the public are being documented and preserved where possible.

Council has not yet provided a timeframe for the completion of a permanent memorial but has indicated updates will be shared as consultation progresses.