15/12/2025
We are heartbroken and deeply shaken by the horrific events at Bondi Beach yesterday, where Jewish families who gathered to celebrate Chanukah were met with violence instead of light. What should have been a moment of joy and unity became a tragedy that strikes at the very core of who we are—our values of peace, faith, and togetherness.
Today, we grieve. We grieve for the lives lost, for those injured, and for every person whose sense of safety has been shattered. We grieve for a community that should have felt secure and instead faced terror. This is not just an attack on Jewish Australians—it is an attack on the shared sense of unity among all Australians.
It doesn’t matter where you are—we are one community today, standing shoulder to shoulder with our Jewish friends in Sydney. We are checking in with residents, staff, volunteers and visitors and will do everything we can to encourage a warm and supportive space to process this tragedy.
It is vital that we keep showing up for each other with kindness, compassion, and respect. If you need a listening ear, or simply the reassurance of community, please know we are here for you.
We will continue to embrace the traditions of Chanukah—a celebration that reminds us that even in darkness, light can endure. This week’s candle lighting events will go ahead as planned, with extra care taken to ensure everyone feels safe and supported. These moments together are more important than ever, as they give us a chance to connect, reflect, and draw strength from one another.
We are constantly reviewing our security measures on the advice of the authorities and the Community Security Group (CSG) and will continue to do so to ensure the wellbeing of everyone in our care.
May this Chanukah still spark joy and connection, even in the shadow of sadness.
Together, we will continue to share light, care for one another, and hold fast to the values that make our community strong.
Tanya Abramzon
Chief Executive Officer
Rod Nirens
President
