Sydney New Year's Eve fireworks go ahead after Bondi attack

Thousands attended Sydney's New Year's Eve fireworks while authorities deployed more than 2,500 officers following the Bondi attack that officials reported left 15 people dead and dozens injured.

Thousands of people gathered at Sydney Harbour and other popular spots to watch New Year's Eve fireworks on 31 December. The event took place days after the Bondi attack in mid-December, which officials reported left 15 people dead and dozens injured. Authorities described a high-visibility policing operation for the evening. Local leaders said the victims would be commemorated with a minute's silence and a menorah projection on the Harbour Bridge. Key facts: - Officials reported that on 14 December gunmen opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration in Bondi's Archer Park, with 15 people killed and dozens injured. - More than 2,500 officers were deployed on New Year's Eve patrols in Sydney, and officials said some officers were visibly armed as part of a rare high-visibility operation. - The accused, Naveed Akram, faces 59 charges; his father, Sajid, was reported shot dead by police at the scene. Summary: Large crowds attended the fireworks amid heightened security and an official commemoration for the Bondi victims. Authorities and local leaders framed the policing as intended to reassure the public. Undetermined at this time.