Greek Australian leaders expressed support at the Federation Square Hanukkah gathering on the third night of the festival, as Melbourne’s Jewish community came together in an atmosphere of both mourning and solidarity following the deadly Bondi Beach terror attack that claimed the lives of 15 Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah.
Jewish Australians were joined by Greek community leaders, representatives of other communities and senior political figures in a strong show of unity against antisemitism. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles joined in lighting the menorah.
The Greek Community of Melbourne was represented by president Bill Papastergiadis. Also in attendance were Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt, Victorian Deputy Premier Ben Carroll, Federal Assistant Minister for Multiculturalism Julian Hill and Victorian Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush.
Premier Allan condemned antisemitism as unacceptable and described Victoria’s Jewish community as “pillars of our multicultural state”, announcing increased funding for the Community Security Group and additional safety measures.
Papastergiadis said there is “no place for antisemitism in Victoria”, adding that while the attack cast a dark cloud, “the lighting of the menorah is the antidote — humanity and respect will prevail over hate.”
Rabbi Gabi Kaltman of the Ark Centre, organiser of the Pillars of Light event, said the support from the Greek community and others strengthened the Jewish community’s resolve. “Like the lights of the menorah, you have helped push back the darkness,” he said.
Dr Hass Dellal AO, Chair of the Australian Multicultural Foundation, reiterated that “an attack on one community is an attack on all”, reaffirming the Foundation’s commitment to unity and social cohesion.
Despite the tragedy, the evening ended with song, dance and renewed determination that the values Hanukkah represents — light, faith and resilience — would endure.
