Rally for Light Shines Bright in Hyde Park on Zos Chanukah
On the final night of Chanukah, Wednesday 1st January 2025, known as Zos Chanukah, Hyde Park in Sydney became a beacon of light as Chabad of the City of Sydney held its annual Rally for Light. The event, in contrast to other rallies often held at the same location, emphasized unity, positivity, and the eradication of darkness through collective action.
The evening began with the Australian National Anthem and prayers for hostages and Israeli soldiers. Colonel Michael Scott CSC, CEO of the 2023 Foundation and a staunch advocate against antisemitism, delivered a powerful keynote. He urged attendees to take practical steps to combat hatred, including education, advocacy, connection, and acts of kindness, inspiring all to become Ambassadors of Light.
The menorah lighting was led by prominent community figures: Colonel Scott lit the shamash, followed by Rabbi Danny, Chavi Israel of Empowered Jew, Eli Tuval, Shoshana Eisner of Operation Golda, Ofir Birnbaum of Together With Israel, David Wakil from Byron Bay, and Rebbetzin Sara-Tova of CBD Chabad Sydney. The final candle was lit by the attending children, symbolizing the next generation’s role in spreading light.
Musician Noy Ben Ami captivated the crowd with a mix of classical Jewish and Chanukah songs.
The event was supported by a wide range of organizations, including the Australian Jewish News, Chabad Double Bay, Australian Jewish Association, Nefesh, Soul Centre, NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, Nitzutz, Dover Heights Shul, Newtown Shul, Technion, Stand With Us, Chabad Youth NSW, Chabad of Bondi, Tzemach Tzedek Community Centre, and the Embassy of Israel in Australia.
Special thanks were extended to those behind the scenes, including NSW Police, CSG NSW, Council of the City of Sydney, Hatzalah NSW, Easy Lighting, Haim Ayalon, Sam Babus Photography, Noy Ben Ami, Valeria, Yona, Alice, and Bojan.
The Rally for Light was a powerful reminder of the potential to overcome darkness through unity and positivity, leaving attendees inspired to continue spreading light in their communities.
