NSW Parliament Hosts Third Annual Rally for Light One Week After Bondi Terror Attack

Exactly one week after the terrorist attack at Bondi Beach that claimed the lives of 15 Jewish Australians and left more than 60 others injured during a Chanukah gathering, the Third Annual Rally for Light was held inside NSW Parliament House, after the venue was moved in response to the tragedy.

Originally planned for another location, the event was relocated when the New South Wales Parliament opened its doors so the gathering could proceed in a setting that reflected both the gravity of the moment and the importance of national unity in the face of violence.

As the Australian community continues to process the shock and grief of the attack, the Rally for Light became a moment not only of remembrance, but also of reflection and resolve.

The Rally for Light was created to celebrate and strengthen core Australian values — mateship, courage, resilience, and the willingness to stand together in times of hardship. This year, those ideals carried a deeper significance.

Held just days after what authorities have described as the first Islamist terrorist attack on Australian soil, the gathering became a powerful statement of unity as Australians begin the difficult process of healing.

Inside the halls of Parliament, community leaders, public figures, and representatives from more than 26 organisations and communities stood side by side. The atmosphere was both solemn and determined, as attendees honoured those who lost their lives while reaffirming a shared commitment to a safer and more united Australia.

The keynote address was delivered by journalist and commentator Erin Molan, who served as this year’s Ambassador for Light. Her speech called for courage, moral clarity, and unity in confronting hatred and extremism while remaining true to the values that bind Australians together.

Attendees were also honoured by an inspirational message of strength and unity delivered by Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, representing the International Chabad-Lubavitch movement from Merkos 302 in Crown Heights, New York, who spoke about the enduring power of community and light in the face of darkness.

The evening also included moments of prayer and reflection.

A blessing for the Government of Australia was delivered by Rabbi Pinchus Feldman, while Rabbi Eli Feldman led a prayer in memory of those murdered in the attack and for the recovery of the injured.

One of the most powerful moments of the evening came during the symbolic Menorah lighting, representing light overcoming darkness. The ceremony began with Erin Molan lighting the Shamash, followed by Orna Triguboff, Anna Pasternak, Rich Lewis, Josh Swift, Annette Pien, Dvir Abramovich, and Esther Helfgott.

The lighting concluded with the most meaningful representatives of all — children, who were invited to light the final candles as the torchbearers of the next generation and as a symbol of hope for the future.

The ceremony was accompanied by songs of hope and inspiration performed by international musician Noy Ben Ami, adding a deeply moving musical dimension to the evening.

The event was made possible with the assistance of The Hon. Scott Farlow, President of the NSW Legislative Council, who helped ensure Parliament House could host the gathering during such a difficult week. Organisers also expressed gratitude to the President and Speaker of the House for facilitating the event.

Photography for the evening was provided by Sam Babus, while filming was produced by Studio7, documenting the speeches and moments of reflection shared by those present.

While the rally honoured the victims and acknowledged the pain felt across the community, it also delivered a broader message about Australia’s future: that violence and hatred will not define the nation’s character.

Instead, the gathering reaffirmed the enduring Australian ideals of mateship, unity, courage, and standing together against darkness.

Organisers expressed hope that the circumstances surrounding this year’s rally will never be repeated.

“May this be the last time such a rally is needed for such a reason,” organisers said.

“From here on, may Australia know only light over darkness, unity over division, courage over fear, and safety and dignity for all.”