Menorah donated to Chabad of Bondi

“You brought the nation together,” NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper told the Chabad of Bondi community in an emotional pre-Shabbat address last Friday.

Kamper told how, after the December 14 terror attack, he was advised to “embrace the community” as a way to show his support.

“But I felt the Jewish community wrapped their arms around us to help us during that difficult time,” he said.

“It was just the most amazing experience. As an individual, I thought ‘Why have I not gotten to know this community better over the years?’. You brought the nation together. You started a mitzvah campaign to let light shine over this darkness. There wasn’t a conversation about retribution, it was all about love and coming together as a community and as Australians.

“I’ve been inspired by the community so much. I and the Premier want to continue to wrap our arms around you.”