Sydney ushered in the New Year with a message of peace after the recent Bondi Beach attack. Thousands gathered to watch the annual fireworks display. The words "peace" and "unity" were projected onto the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
The display followed the December 14 attack at a Hanukkah festival in Bondi Beach, which killed 15 people. A Jewish menorah was projected onto the bridge pylons as a sign of solidarity. A white light illuminated the Sydney Harbour Bridge, symbolizing peace.
Heightened security measures were in place. Over 2,500 NSW police officers patrolled the city. Some officers were authorized to carry high-grade weapons. Crowds observed a minute's silence, turning on their mobile phone flashlights.
The Bondi attack targeted Australia's Jewish community. The New Year's Eve display aimed to promote unity and healing. Authorities will maintain increased security presence in the coming days.
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