Sydneysiders gather in rain for October 7 memorial
Ambassador Amir Maimon: 'These two years have brought immeasurable hardship, yet those who have suffered most are the ones who teach us the meaning of strength, courage and hope'
Eight thousand Sydneysiders braved the rain on Sunday night to attend a solemn yet uplifting commemoration marking the second anniversary of the Hamas-led October 7, 2023 attacks on Israel.
The gathering, organised by the Zionist Council of NSW and in Dover Heights, brought together members of the Jewish community and supporters to remember the devastation of that day and the ongoing conflict.
“October 7 is a day of global significance. The barbarism unleashed that day was an attack on all we hold dear, freedom, safety and the right to live in peace,” Zionist Council of NSW president Orli Zahava told the crowd. “It shattered the illusion that hatred can be wished away, if only we wish hard enough for peace. Yet in that shattering, something else was revealed, a deeper unity, a greater strength.
“Here in Sydney, that unity has carried us. Even as social cohesion is tested, our community becomes more connected, more determined. And beyond the Jewish community, brave and principled Australians have stood with us, to grieve, to remember and to never forget. We thank you.”
Israeli Ambassador Amir Maimon recalled that fateful day, making mention of the faces behind the numbers killed, including the young Bibas family, was well as members of his own family.
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