UPDATE: Approximately 450 community members gathered in Armidale on Saturday to support the Jewish community following the horrific terrorist shooting at Bondi Beach. A powerful message of unity and love resonated among nearly a dozen speakers, emphasizing a collective rejection of hate in the wake of tragedy.
The gathering, held in the town’s central mall, was marked by emotional speeches and heartfelt tributes. Northern Tablelands MP Brendan Moylan addressed the crowd, expressing the challenge of explaining the recent violence to his children. “We’re at our best when we’re united, when we reject hatred, when we reject division,” he stated, urging the community to demonstrate peace and solidarity.
Among the speakers was Salam Qaro, representing the Ezidi community, who condemned the Bondi attack as a brutal act fueled by hatred. “We choose unity, we choose courage, and we choose to stand together. We choose love, not hate,” he declared, drawing parallels between the suffering of his community and that of the Jewish people.
Mayor Sam Coupland shared his deep emotion over the recent violence, calling it a “shattering” event for the nation. He recalled the unifying response to the Port Arthur massacre in 1996, urging the community to show overt sympathy and support for the Jewish community. “If there is to be a galvanizing effect, the first step is to support each other,” he said.
The emotional weight of the event was felt by many, including local resident Raphaella Crosby, who has lived in the Jewish community of Bondi for five years. She emphasized the need to heal and seek peace, stating, “What matters is that you do what you can to make the world a better place.”
New England Police Inspector Greg Ryan condemned the Bondi attack as “quite simply evil,” pledging to take strong action against hate-driven crimes. “It is time for the community to come together to support one another,” he urged, reinforcing the importance of unity in the face of tragedy.
In a call for solidarity, Bishop Rod Chiswell highlighted the need for people of all faiths to stand with the Jewish community. “Senseless violence, motivated by racial hatred, has no place in this country,” he stated, reminding attendees of the importance of compassion and togetherness.
As a poignant tribute, dozens of bouquets were laid in memory of the victims, and the crowd observed a minute of silence after their names were read aloud. The event served as a powerful reminder of the strength found in community and the unwavering commitment to love over hate.
With calls for ongoing support and unity, Armidale stands as a beacon of hope in a time of darkness. The community’s response to the Bondi Beach tragedy illustrates a collective determination to reject division and foster healing, demonstrating that, even in the face of adversity, love can prevail.
