Sydney has welcomed the New Year with a message of peace following the Bondi Beach mass shooting, as huge crowds gathered to watch the city's annual fireworks display. The words peace and unity were projected onto the Sydney Harbour Bridge, as thousands of heavily armed police officers patrolled the streets - a rare and stark sight in Australia - as part of heightened security measures. The New South Wales (NSW) Police reported over 2,500 officers on duty, with some authorized to carry high-grade weapons. The attack on December 14 had targeted Australia's Jewish community, resulting in the tragic loss of 15 lives. This New Year’s Eve however, stood as a robust celebration of life and solidarity, with citizens urged not to allow fear to dictate their celebrations. The Harbour Bridge was illuminated and adorned with projections of a menorah, symbolizing support for the Jewish community during these challenging times. Official celebrations included a moment of silence to honor the victims, reflecting Sydney's resilience in the face of adversity.