‘Just running for our lives’: Queenstown woman recounts Bondi shooting terror

A Queenstown woman who found herself in the midst of the tragic mass shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach has shared her harrowing experience, revealing that her family is still reeling from the events of that fateful day.

The shooting, which claimed the lives of sixteen individuals including the shooter, occurred during a Jewish holiday celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach. Donna Corbel, a resident of Queenstown visiting her children, recounted the terrifying ordeal as they dined just 40 meters away from where the violence erupted.

“We were enjoying our meal when suddenly, a large crowd of people began rushing towards us from the beach. It was chaotic, and we initially thought it might be a tsunami due to the noise in the restaurant. However, as gunshots rang out, we realized the severity of the situation and sought shelter,” Corbel recalled.

In a state of panic, the family fled the restaurant through the back and windows, running for their lives amidst the continuous gunfire. Corbel described the experience as surreal, with the sound of shots ringing in their ears and the fear of the unknown gripping them.

“We were running purely on instinct, consumed by terror as the gunfire seemed to surround us. We didn’t exchange words, we just ran,” she said. “The sense of dread was palpable, and every noise heightened our anxiety.”

Taking refuge, they waited anxiously for the shooting to cease, each moment feeling like an eternity. The traumatic events of that day have left an indelible mark on Corbel and her family, manifesting in heightened vigilance and fear.

“The aftermath of yesterday’s tragedy lingers on. My son’s reaction to a passing police siren this morning was a stark reminder of the trauma we endured,” she shared. “Every sound puts us on edge, prompting thoughts of escape and survival.”

Despite the desire for safety, Corbel acknowledged the harsh reality that nowhere is truly secure. Reflecting on the incident, she expressed a longing for her children to return home, seeking solace in the familiar amidst a world plagued by uncertainty.

“The urge to have my children by my side, away from potential danger, is strong. The events of yesterday have shattered our sense of security, making us question the safety of any place,” she admitted.

Amidst the chaos, Corbel and her family faced additional challenges as they were unable to retrieve their belongings from the sealed-off restaurant, further highlighting the lingering impact of the tragedy.