A message from the Mayor of Waverley, Paula Masselos

On behalf of Waverley Council, the Council's Acting General Manager, Sharon Cassidy, and my fellow Waverley Councillors, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the families of the victims of today’s tragic events at Westfield Bondi Junction and wish those injured a full recovery.

I, along with the entire Waverley community, are in a state of deep shock as we continue to learn details of the events that unfolded this afternoon.

Many acts of heroism have been reported, with people helping each other get out of harm's way and attend to the wounded. I especially want to convey my sincere thanks to the heroic policewoman who stopped the perpetrator from committing any further acts of violence upon the visitors to Westfield Bondi Junction on the first day of the NSW school holidays.

My thanks also to the first responders who all showed tremendous bravery and who acted so quickly to bring people to safety as events unfolded. Waverley is a safe community, and today’s events are deeply shocking.

While this is a police investigation, we will keep you updated through Waverley Council's social media.

I encourage people to call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 if help and support is required during this tragic time.

My thoughts and prayers are with the entire community.

Councillor Paula Masselos

Mayor of Waverley