Marking six months since Bondi

Exactly six months on from the Bondi Beach Chanukah by the Sea terror attack – and in memory of the 15 people that were murdered – close to 2000 people united in solemn reflection, prayer, song and comforting messages of hope at two communal events at the site, and one across the harbour.

Between 9am and 4pm, more than 500 people participated in small group Torah learning workshops presented by rabbis and rebbetzins from half a dozen shules, at The Mitzvah House Bondi stall.

Organiser Rabbi Noach Koncepolski told The AJN that people came to find inspiration and meaning, and said it was particularly special to have Chabad of Bondi’s Rabbi Yehoram Ulman attend, to share words of faith and strength.

Of the event itself, but also on how The Mitzvah House Bondi continues to serve and comfort so many, Rabbi Koncepolski described it in one word, “connection”.

“And it’s beautiful to see a place that was of such horror, be transformed into a vibrant, positive space.”

For the non-Jewish community, he said, “I think just the physical presence of having somebody from the Jewish community here to engage with – for some for the first time – is most important,” and he thanked the many volunteers who make it possible.

After sunset, hundreds more braved wet weather to gather at nearby Archer Park, at a moving event organised by Rabbi Yossi Friedman, who said, “We gather not only to remember, but to remind one another that we do not walk this journey alone.”

Rabbi Ulman told the audience, “At this place we lost 15 precious souls. Many of their families are here, and this loss is something we can never fill or heal,” he said, but also emphasised the power of continuing to respond by spreading more light.

A minute’s silence was observed and memorial candles lit by SES volunteers, before Ilan Kidron sang his adaptation of Waltzing Matilda in honour of the loss of 10-year-old Matilda Britvan, with her parents and younger sister singing alongside.

Another poignant musical moment was brothers Ezry and Mizzi Israel singing Light will Win.

Also last Sunday, Cremorne Synagogue hosted a sold-out event supported by the NSW government which featured speakers reflecting on their lived experiences, expert insights on trauma and resilience, guided meditation, and a kosher dinner.

Organiser Kevin Jochelson said it provided a “calm space to reflect on what we have carried, and begin reconnecting”.