The Australian Council of National Trusts acknowledges the distressing and tragic events at Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most important cultural places.
It is a place woven into our national identity, a historic place and symbol of openness, community, diversity and shared public life. That such violence occurred there has affected not only those directly involved, but the entire nation, including members and staff. This is a historic event for all the wrong reasons, and it has left us shocked and saddened.
Our thoughts are with the victims, their families and loved ones, and with all those who were present and traumatised by what occurred. We recognise that this tragedy has had a profound impact across the National Trust community and community at large. We are particularly mindful of our volunteers and staff, many of whom are grieving and will need to take time away from ordinary life and duties to cope.
The National Trust exists to protect, care and advocate for places of cultural, historic and social significance. But our purpose is broader than buildings and landscapes alone. We stand for the values those places represent and celebrating Australian culture which is underpinned by inclusion, respect, shared civic life and the preservation of Australia’s cultural fabric in all its diversity.
We are clear the National Trust does not, and will not, tolerate racism, hatred or extremist ideologies. Such views have no place in Australia and stand in direct opposition to the values that underpin our organisation and our shared Australian heritage. Bondi Beach will always remain an iconic place, but this event has inevitably marked it. As a nation, we are grieving, and we must also reflect. Moments like this challenge us to reaffirm who we are, what we stand for, and the kind of society we are committed to preserving. To all members of our community, including particularly at this time our Jewish members, board members, volunteers and staff, we extend our deepest empathy and solidarity.
Lachlan Molesworth
Chair
Australian Council of National Trusts
The National Trusts of Australia (Australian Council of National Trusts) is the national body representing each state and territory National Trust. It is the peak heritage body in Australia responsible for advocating for better heritage funding and heritage policy outcomes for the Australian people.
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