Sydney Christmas event Carols in the Domain makes major announcement in the wake of Bondi Beach attack

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Sydney’s popular Christmas tradition is back this year, and will include a special tribute to those lost in the Bondi tragedy.

I’m so excited for Carols in the Domain with The Salvation Army this Saturday, December 20th! It’s going to be hosted by Natalie Barr and Matt Shirvington from Sunrise, and it’s all about coming together to remember loved ones and feel a sense of unity. I wouldn’t miss it!

Christmas celebrations have always been a time for community, but this year’s event feels especially significant after the tragic attack at a Hanukkah celebration last week.

This year’s Salvos Carols in the Domain will pause for a moment of remembrance to honor the victims of the recent tragedy, and several songs will be performed in memory of the 15 people who tragically lost their lives.

Considering how difficult the past year has been for many Australians, and with the recent loss of life still very painful, Natalie, the host of Sunrise, said this year’s event feels especially significant.

This is a moment to remember loved ones we’ve lost and come together as a community – whether we’re gathered at the Domain or celebrating from home – for an evening of peaceful reflection and to celebrate the lasting joy of Christmas.

Matt Shirvington noted that the Salvos Carols in the Domain is traditionally a joyful and beloved event, but this year it represents something even more – a demonstration of strength and recovery.

Sydney is a city known for its strong community, and this event is a great way to demonstrate that unity through the power of music.

He continued, explaining that it’s important to remember we can still find hope and connect with others, even when things are difficult.

Joining Natalie and Matt at the festive celebration will be an all-star lineup of performers.

Beloved children’s group The Wiggles will be performing, along with singer and The Voice coach Kate Miller-Heidke.

Popular singers Leo Sayer and Marcia Hines will also be performing at the carols event.

For the first time in its 43-year history, Australia’s biggest Christmas event is teaming up with The Salvation Army. This partnership marks a new beginning for the annual carols service.

The event will be available to stream on Seven and 7Plus from 8pm. 

This follows a mass shooting in Australia – the second deadliest in the country’s history – which tragically claimed the lives of 15 innocent people, including a 10-year-old girl.

On Sunday, two individuals opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration called ‘Chanukah by the Sea’ in Bondi Beach.

Authorities have identified Naveed Akram, age 24, and his father, Sajid Akram, age 50, as suspects in the killings. Sajid Akram was fatally shot at the scene.

Today, twelve people injured in the attack are still in critical condition. An additional 26 patients are receiving treatment at seven hospitals throughout Sydney, with injuries ranging in severity.

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2025-12-17 16:51