Bondi hero Ahmed al Ahmed presented with A$2.5m cheque as global support pours in
Ahmed al Ahmed, who was injured after ambushing and disarming an alleged gunman during the Bondi Beach attack, has received a novelty cheque representing more than A$2.5 million (approximately US$1.6–1.7 million) raised by supporters worldwide. Another bystander, Gefen Bitton, ran alongside him toward the attacker and was shot. Both men remain in hospital as tributes continue to pour in.
- Ahmed al Ahmed received a cheque for over A$2.5m raised by global donors
- He remains hospitalised after saving dozens during the Bondi Beach attack
- Second bystander Gefen Bitton has been identified and remains in recovery
AUSTRALIA: Ahmed al Ahmed, the bystander credited with saving more than 30 people during the Bondi Beach attack, has received a novelty cheque representing more than A$2.5 million (approximately US$1.6–1.7 million) raised through a global GoFundMe campaign.
The fundraiser drew donations from over 43,000 contributors worldwide.
Hospital presentation
The cheque was presented at Ahmed’s bedside at St George Hospital by Canadian social media influencer Zachery Dereniowski, a co-organiser of the campaign.
The fundraiser attracted high-profile donors including American billionaire Bill Ackman, comedian Amy Schumer and Australian musician Kid Laroi.
Footage showed Ahmed watching a televised cricket match when Dereniowski approached and embraced him before handing over the cheque.
“I deserve it?” Ahmed asked, to which Dereniowski replied, “Every penny.”
Call for unity
Speaking from his hospital bed, Ahmed urged people around the world to stand together.
Raising his fist, he said his actions were driven by protecting families and children enjoying a peaceful celebration, adding: “They deserve to enjoy. God protect Australia. Aussie, Aussie, Aussie.”
From bystander to national hero
Video of Ahmed ambushing and disarming alleged terrorist Sajid Akram during the attack went viral, thrusting the Sutherland Shire shop owner into the national spotlight.
He sustained gunshot wounds and has undergone several surgeries, with a long recovery ahead.
Ahmed has since received hospital visits from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and New South Wales Premier Chris Minns.
His shop has remained closed, with flowers, handwritten notes and children’s drawings left outside by members of the community.
Second hero identified
The man who ran alongside Ahmed during the confrontation has been identified as Gefen Bitton, a 30-year-old Israeli citizen.
Bitton was shot twice after running back toward the gunman despite initially reaching safety.
According to a statement from his family, Bitton “ran into the face of danger like only a hero does.”
He remains hospitalised after emerging from a coma, with his father travelling from Israel to be by his side.
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