Ten years ago, you could have walked down to the beach at sunset and felt safe. Now it’s like anyplace else - a reminder that times are different.

Last night, as people gathered to celebrate Hanukkah in Sydney's Bondi Beach area, two men with guns entered the scene, unleashing terror upon those who were only there to light candles and share a meal.

It’s hard not to think back. Back when you could leave your door unlocked and know no one would take it amiss. That was before. Now, every gathering carries an edge of fear.

This isn’t the first time such horror has visited our shores or, indeed, this particular beach. Every new attack feels like a slap in the face to all that we hold dear. But what else is there?

“Used to be you could go anywhere and people just lived their lives,” said Mary Smith, who’s been coming here for decades. “Now it’s different.”

The attack has raised serious questions about security protocols at religious events and in public spaces. Community leaders are calling on the government for more stringent measures.

“We need to ask ourselves what’s changed,” said Rabbi Cohen, a community leader. “Why is this happening? Who’s letting it happen?”

And while everyone's talking about how we should react, very little is done. We’re left wondering if any of us truly believe that things could be different.

When was the last time you heard real talk in Washington about making our communities safer?

The attack has sent ripples through the community, with many questioning their sense of security and wondering how such an event could occur without warning.

It’s a stark reminder that even in places traditionally seen as safe havens for religious expression, vigilance is now required. But at what cost?

Ten years ago, this beach was just another place to enjoy life's simple pleasures. Today, it feels like the front line of a war we didn’t ask for.