Despite heavy rain, an emotional vigil brought locals together to remember the victims of last week’s Bondi Beach terror attack in Sydney.
At 6:47 pm, candles were lit and a minute of silence observed, as the crowd stood in grief, love and solidarity.
On December 14, two gunmen opened fire at Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah celebration, killing 15 people and injuring more than 40. One alleged gunman died at the scene, while the other remains in custody.
One vigil was led by local resident Deborah David in front of the Star on Berwick High Street.
Another was held at Hicks Reserve in Officer and organised by the Officer City Soccer Club.
Jade Watson, a first responder and future paramedic, acknowledged not only those who tragically lost their lives in this horrific event, but also the emergency services and other personnel who responded.
“These individuals risked their own lives to place the safety of the community before themselves, demonstrating the kind of people they are,” she said.
“I aspire one day to uphold the same courage and compassion they showed last Sunday.
“Tonight, we came together to light candles in honour of the Jewish community and the lives that were lost. Australia should be a safe and peaceful place for all, and moments like this remind us of the importance of standing united as one.”
Ms David said even though the tragedy occurred in another state, ‘it’s not ‘us and them.’
“We are one community. It has affected everyone in different ways. We are all grieving,” she said.
She added that the tragedy seemed to bring out a stronger sense of community spirit.
“Ever since it happened, I’ve noticed people going out of their way to smile and connect. The other day, I saw people from different cultural backgrounds trying to talk to each other—it was really nice to see.”
Local attendee and photographer, Nesh Lim described the gather as “a quiet vigil, shared grief and a reminder that our community stands together”.
Cardinia Shire Councillor Jack Kowarzik, along with others participating remotely, lit a candle at his family dinner for the National Day of Reflection.
“Keep light in your heart, and let’s recognise that we are an egalitarian society where equality is a value we hold in the highest,” he wrote on social media.
“Please also remember, honour, and grieve for those who lost their lives and who were impacted by this event.”
The vigil was captured in a moving photograph by Nesh Lim.
Radmilla Dyson, founder of Officer City Soccer Club, added the vigil at Hicks Reserve was a truly moving moment for our community.
“We came together to stand side by side, to reflect, and to show our support to the Jewish community. A local young jewish family- the peleg family, shared a few words and were surrounded with warmth and compassion from everyone there. As candles were lit on the last night of Hanukkah, the glow seemed to carry a shared message — of unity, love, and care. People spoke from the heart about standing together, lifting each other up, and choosing love over division. It was a quiet, touching reminder of the strength and kindness that shine through our community, even in the hardest time,” Radmilla said.
