A minute's silence was held to remember the victims of the Bondi Beach attack, a week after the tragic shooting. The memorial was part of a national day of reflection, marking the Jewish festival of Hannukah. Among the 15 people killed were a 10-year-old girl, a British-born rabbi, and a Holocaust survivor. The event was marked by heavy security, with armed officers and a police patrol boat on the coast. A large crowd gathered, many wearing kippas or draped in Australian flags. The youngest victim, Matilda, was honored with floating bee balloons, and the crowd sang 'Waltzing Matilda'. Another child, Chaya, a 14-year-old who bravely protected strangers' children, addressed the nation. The memorial ended with the lighting of the menorah. The event was not limited to Bondi Beach; homes across the nation lined their windowsills with candles. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faced boos and protests, with some accusing him of not doing enough to prevent the attack. The Jewish community expressed shock, citing a rise in antisemitism since the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel. Albanese acknowledged the criticism, accepting responsibility as the Prime Minister. The Premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns, was praised for his leadership and swift admission of government errors. Naveed Akram, the accused, faces 59 charges, including murder and terrorism. The government has announced measures to combat hate speech and a review of police and intelligence agencies. The attack has highlighted the need for a Royal Commission to address the deep-rooted antisemitism in the community.
