A national day of mourning was observed on December 14, 2023, as Australia remembers the victims of a tragic mass shooting in Bondi. Rabbi Yehoram Ulman of Chabad Bondi, who lost his son-in-law, Rabbi Eli Schlanger, and numerous community members in the attack, expressed deep sorrow over the losses. “For me personally, it was the most difficult time in my life that I’ve had,” he shared with reporters. “I’ve lost friends. I’ve lost a dear son-in-law. I’ve seen members of my community losing parents, spouses. I’ve seen parents losing a child, and it is devastating.”
The shooting occurred during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, where two gunmen opened fire, injuring 15 people, including a young girl named Matilda. As the nation grapples with the aftermath, Rabbi Ulman believes it is crucial for the country to begin the healing process.
At the memorial service held at the Sydney Opera House, Rabbi Ulman delivered a powerful message of resilience. With a significant police presence and helicopters patrolling the area, he declared, “We are reclaiming this Australian icon, which became a venue for darkness, a venue for hate, a venue for promoting violence.” His remarks were a response to protests that erupted following the Hamas attack on Israel earlier in 2023, during which anti-Semitic sentiments were voiced.
During this solemn occasion, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese offered heartfelt apologies to the affected families, receiving a warm round of applause as he embraced Rabbi Ulman. NSW Premier Chris Minns also received cheers from the crowd when he stated, “Australia is not the country for you” in reference to those who oppose its values of freedom.
A standing ovation was dedicated to Syrian-Australian Ahmed al-Ahmed, who bravely confronted one of the shooters and disarmed him, showcasing remarkable courage in the face of danger.
In a poignant moment, Chaya Dadon, a 14-year-old survivor who helped save several children during the shooting, remarked, “The nation has stood up” in support of Jewish Australians since the attack. Rabbi Ulman reinforced the community’s determination to maintain their cultural and religious identities despite ongoing pain. “I hope that Australia is moving in the right direction, but we can’t live in fear,” he emphasized.
This day of mourning marks the first such observance in Australia since the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, underscoring the significant impact of the tragedy on the nation. As the community continues to navigate this difficult chapter, leaders and citizens alike are united in their resolve to foster healing and strength in the face of adversity.
