Australia’s ‘Bondi hero’ raises $1.65M through fundraising

SYDNEY: A man credited with saving lives during a mass shooting at Bondi Beach received a donation of over A$2.5 million ($1.65 million) on Friday, thanks to tens of thousands of people contributing through a fundraising website.

Ahmed al Ahmed hid behind parked cars before charging at one of the gunmen from behind, grabbing his weapon and knocking him down. Ahmed was shot during the incident, apparently by a second attacker, and remains hospitalized after surgery.

The Muslim father of two was presented with a large check at his hospital bed at St George Hospital by Zachery Dereniowski, a social media influencer and co-organizer of the crowdfunding campaign, as videos posted online show.

More than 43,000 people globally contributed, including billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman, who donated A$99,999 and promoted the fundraiser on his X account. Australia’s prime minister and the state premier visited Ahmed in the hospital to commend his bravery.

Upon receiving the check, Ahmed asked, “Do I really deserve this?” Dereniowski replied, “Every penny,” according to the videos.

When asked what he would say to those who donated, Ahmed responded: “To stand with each other, as human beings. To forget all the negativity… and to keep saving lives.”

“When I helped people, I did it from the heart because it was a beautiful day. Everyone was enjoying, celebrating with their children, women, men, teenagers — everyone was happy. They deserve that happiness,” Ahmed said, raising his uninjured fist.

“This country is the best in the world, but we can’t just watch anymore — enough is enough. God bless Australia. Australia, Australia, Australia.” The store owner has not disclosed plans for the money.

Ahmed, 43, left his hometown in Idlib, Syria, nearly 20 years ago to find work in Australia.

On Sunday, as many as 15 people were killed and dozens wounded when two gunmen opened fire during Hanukkah celebrations at the renowned beach. Authorities allege that a 50-year-old man, who was shot and killed by police, along with his 24-year-old son, who was critically injured, carried out the attack.