An Australian social media influencer has been widely criticised for a "tone-deaf" photoshoot conducted during a solemn minute of silence held to honour the victims of the Bondi Beach terror attack.
NYE Tribute Disrupted by Photo Session
The incident occurred at an exclusive New Year's Eve celebration hosted by jewellery designer and socialite Emma Pills at her multi-million dollar Vaucluse mansion in Sydney. At 11pm, the A-list event paused for a one-minute silence to remember the 15 lives lost in the horrific attack on December 14th.
While guests gathered respectfully on a balcony, 28-year-old influencer Julia Cavanagh was reportedly on the tennis court below, actively posing for pictures with another woman and a photographer. A Daily Mail reporter present witnessed the photo session taking place even as the names of the victims were projected nearby.
A Moment of Respect Overshadowed
The memorial was for the victims of the Bondi Beach massacre, where two gunmen opened fire on a Hanukkah By The Sea celebration. The attack, officially designated an act of terrorism, also left 40 people injured.
According to reports, the lack of awareness was further highlighted when the photographer accompanying Cavanagh loudly asked, "Is there a speech happening?" during the silent tribute. At one point, Cavanagh was also seen crawling to retrieve her bag, which was partially obscuring the projection displaying the victims' names.
The event's host, Emma Pills (Emma Pillemer), is the daughter of a prominent fund manager and is herself Jewish. She has been actively involved in fundraising efforts for the affected families, having recently hosted a 'Coffee and Cupcakes' fundraiser at Speedos Café in North Bondi.
Aftermath of a National Tragedy
The alleged perpetrator, 50-year-old Sajid Akram, was shot dead by police at the scene. His alleged co-conspirator, his 24-year-old son Naveed, was critically injured and later charged with 59 offences—including 15 counts of murder—after waking from a coma.
The shooting at one of Australia's most iconic tourist destinations sent shockwaves across the nation. Memorials and tributes have been widespread, including the official minute of silence observed at the Sydney Opera House on New Year's Eve, which stood in stark contrast to the events at the private party.
The Daily Mail has approached Julia Cavanagh for comment regarding her actions during the tribute.
