‘What made me do what I did?’: Bondi hero Ahmed al-Ahmed reveals major answer to ‘why’ he disarmed gunman

Bondi hero Ahmed al-Ahmed has revealed his one-word answer over “why” he risked his life to disarm the gunman, while receiving a prestigious award on Australia Day. Mr Ahmed on Monday became the first-ever recipient of the City of Canterbury Bankstown’s Key to the City award - recognised for his bravery and selflessness shown during last year’s terror attack. Fifteen innocent lives were snuffed out on December 14 when two alleged gunmen opened fire at a Jewish celebration, Chanukah by the Sea, at Bondi Beach. Mr al-Ahmed was captured on video sneaking up behind one of the gunman and wrestling the weapon out of his hands. The 42-year-old was shot in the arm and spent two weeks recovering in hospital after the attack. His actions have saved many lives. Speaking at the council’s award ceremony on Monday, Mr al-Ahmed said: “It’s an honour to receive this award on Australia Day – it’s very meaningful to me.” “What made me do what I did?” “Humanity – we’re all human beings and we’re all Australians.” “I’ve had three operations, two bullets still in my arm and in great pain but I’m strong and I’m going to recover as quickly as I can.” Canterbury-Bankstown mayor Bilal El-Hayek praised Mr al-Ahmed for inspiring the nation. “Mr al-Ahmed decision to put himself in harm’s way saved lives on one of the darkest days in our nation’s history and his belief in humanity against hate inspires us all,” he said. “We thank Ahmed and all of our Australia Day Award recipients for their selfless dedication and service. “I am honoured to formally recognise their achievements today.” A GoFundMe was created on December 15 and has raised more than $2.5 million to “show gratitude and support for someone who demonstrated incredible courage when it mattered most”. Mr al-Ahmed’s Instagram bio says, “Not a superhero. Just someone who chose to help”.