Ahmed al Ahmed, a 43-year-old Syrian refugee who disarmed one of the shooters during the terrorist attack on the beach of Bondi, in Sidney, received a symbolic check worth approximately R$9 million.
The delivery took place this Thursday (18), while he is still recovering in the hospital from injuries caused by gunshots.
The amount was raised through an online campaign that brought together contributions from more than 43 thousand people from different countries.
Influencer Zachery Dereniowski, one of the crowdfunding organizers, delivered the check directly to the hospital bed.
Hospital delivery details
Ahmed al Ahmed remains hospitalized at St. George Hospital, in Sidney, where he treats shoulder and arm injuries.
Videos released show the moment he receives the oversized check from the influencer’s hands.
Dereniowski highlighted the bravery of Ahmed, who prevented additional deaths by confronting the shooter.
The GoFundMe campaign quickly exceeded expectations, with initial donations from public figures.
Profile of Ahmed to Ahmed
Ahmed is a father of two and the owner of a fruit store in the southern region of Sidney.
He has held Australian citizenship since arriving in the country in 2006, fleeing the war in Síria.
On the day of the attack, he was coincidentally on the beach, having coffee with a friend.
Upon seeing the shooting, he attacked one of the shooters, disarming him and being shot at.
- Syrian refugee living in Austrália for almost 20 years.
- No prior experience with firearms.
- Action described as instinctive and motivated by protecting victims.
Context of the attack on Bondi
The attack occurred on December 14 during the Hanukkah celebration on Bondi beach.
Two gunmen, a father and son, opened fire on the crowd, killing 15 people and injuring dozens.
Police classified the incident as a terrorist act inspired by extremist ideology.
One of the suspects was killed at the scene, and the other is hospitalized and faces charges.
Repercussion of the donation campaign
The crowdfunding attracted global contributions, including from billionaires and celebrities.
On the first day, it had already surpassed A$1.3 million.
The final total reached A$2.53 million, equivalent to around R$9 million at current prices.
Ahmed expressed gratitude and called for unity among people.
Official visits and recognitions
Australian authorities visited Ahmed in hospital in the days following the attack.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised his action as an example of the best in the country.
Nova Gales’s premier of Sul, Chris Minns, also called him a real-life hero.
International leaders highlighted the courageous gesture amid the incident.
Impact on affected communities
The attack shook the Jewish community of Sidney, one of the largest in Austrália.
Security measures have been reinforced at public events.
Government announced plans to tighten gun laws and combat anti-Semitism.
Donations for victims and families were also organized separately.
Ahmed al Ahmed continues to recover, with family and medical support.
The campaign reflects international solidarity after the episode.
He reiterated messages of peace and unity in interviews from the hospital.
The case gained worldwide attention due to its bravery in a context of violence.
