Celebrating the life of Marika Pogany

When four friends set off for Chanukah by the Sea at Bondi Beach on that devastating December afternoon, only three returned. Marika Pogany, a force of nature beloved by her tight-knit group of girlfriends, was among the victims killed in the terror attack. Now, a new documentary airing this Sunday on ABC TV is honouring her memory, and the remarkable women who refuse to let it fade.

Bondi Spirit, screening at 6.30pm on Sunday 8 March before heading to iview, is a deeply personal Compass documentary produced by Tracey Spring, who was drawn to the story through a close friendship.

“My friend’s mother was best friends with Marika and was with her when the shooting started,” Spring told The AJN. “After the massacre, we spent hours talking and she asked me if I would consider making a Compass about the group.”

What followed was a gentle but urgent process of trust-building, not only with the women, but also with the community, and with Rabbi Ulman, who was himself deep in grief.

“Rabbi Ulman and his son Rabbi Mendy Ulman did not really have time to talk to me, but they made time,” Spring explained. “The women were all still in shock and grief, but they were strong and generous enough to sit down and open up about their dear friend.”