On Sunday, a horrific mass shooting occurred at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach, where families were celebrating the first night of Hanukkah. Two gunmen opened fire, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 15 people, including a 10-year-old girl, a Holocaust survivor, and a young French national. This incident has been classified as a terrorist attack by authorities, making it one of Australia’s deadliest mass shootings in nearly three decades. While the victims have yet to be officially identified, heartfelt tributes from their loved ones are pouring in.
Among the victims was Matilda, a vibrant 10-year-old described as a “very sweet, happy child” by her aunt. Matilda was enjoying the festivities with her parents, younger sister, and friends when the gunfire erupted. Despite being rushed to the hospital, doctors were unable to save her life. Her aunt, Lina, expressed the tragedy, stating, “Kids are supposed to be happy. They should be playing on the beach, not thinking about bullets flying around.” Matilda’s former language teacher, Irina Goodhew, remembered her as a “bright, joyful, and spirited child” and established a GoFundMe page to support the family. The family had emigrated from Ukraine in the 1990s and cherished their time at the beach, picnics in the park, and visits to the zoo. The Harmony Russian School of Sydney also honored Matilda, recognizing her contributions as a former student.
Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was another victim who played a central role in organizing the “Chanukah by the Sea” event at Bondi Beach. Serving as the assistant rabbi at the Chabad of Bondi, he was well-regarded for his commitment to the Jewish community. The Chabad organization noted that Schlanger had dedicated 18 years to serving the community and was also a chaplain for various institutions, including NSW Corrective Services and St. Vincent’s Hospital. He is remembered as a devoted husband and father of five, whose youngest child was born just last month. His cousin, Rabbi Zalman Lewis, described him as “truly an incredible guy.” Plans are underway for Schlanger’s burial in Jerusalem.
Alex Kleytman, 87, was a Holocaust survivor who lost his life while trying to protect his wife, Larisa, from the gunfire. Originally from Ukraine, Kleytman had survived the horrors of the Holocaust alongside his mother and younger brother. He and his wife had been married for nearly 60 years and were proud parents of two children and grandparents to 11 grandchildren. His story was a testament to resilience, with Kleytman having migrated to Australia after the war.
Dan Elkayam, a French national, was also among those tragically killed during the celebration. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot confirmed Elkayam’s attendance at the event with fellow members of the Jewish community. Elkayam was known as a passionate football fan and played for Rockdale Ilinden FC’s Premier League 1 team. His club described him as an “extremely talented and popular figure” who will be greatly missed. Elkayam had recently relocated to Australia and worked with NBC Universal, providing technical support.
Rabbi Yaakov Levitan served as the secretary of the Sydney Beth Din and was actively involved in Chabad operations. His contributions to the community were significant, and his loss is deeply felt.
Reuven Morrison, a businessman and longtime resident of Melbourne, was originally from the former Soviet Union. He had embraced his Jewish identity in Sydney and aimed to support charitable causes throughout his life. Morrison is survived by his wife and daughter, leaving a legacy of generosity behind.
Peter Meagher, a former NSW detective and a respected member of the rugby community, was also killed in the attack. Known affectionately as “Marzo,” he had dedicated decades to the Randwick Rugby Club and was participating in the Hanukkah event as a freelance photographer. Meagher had a distinguished 40-year career in the police force and was known for his dedication to public service.
Tibor Weitzen, 78, was remembered as a “sweet grandpa” who brought joy to many. A member of Bondi’s Chabad Synagogue, Weitzen was attending the Hanukkah event with his family when he was fatally shot. He was known as the congregation’s beloved “candyman,” always bringing smiles to those around him. His granddaughter expressed the family’s devastation over his loss.
Marika Pogány, an 82-year-old Slovak citizen, was also among the victims. A close family friend of Slovakia’s former President Zuzana Čaputová, Pogány was a dedicated volunteer who had received numerous awards for her service to the Jewish community. Her life story was filled with resilience, having survived the Auschwitz Concentration Camp, and she found a safe haven in Sydney.
This tragic incident has left a mark on the community, highlighting the need for solidarity and support in the face of such violence. The victims’ stories remind us of the importance of cherishing each moment and standing against hatred and intolerance.