Chaya Dadon, a teenager who shielded children from gunfire during the Bondi massacre on December 14, has been nominated for Australian of the Year. During the attack at the Chanukah by the Sea event, Dadon left her hiding spot to protect younger children, acting as a human shield and sustaining a gunshot wound in the process. Despite her injuries, she remained focused on keeping the children safe, drawing strength from her faith. After spending several days in hospital, she is now recovering and hopes to reconnect with the children she saved. Dadon expressed humility about her actions, emphasizing the collective bravery shown by everyone present and her belief that the ordeal will ultimately strengthen her community.