The local community gathered at vigils on the steps of the Castlemaine Market Building and at local churches this week to honour the victims of Sunday’s Bondi massacre.
At Tuesday’s Mount Alexander Shire Council meeting mayor Cr Toby Heydon opened with a short statement on the tragedy:
‘We stand united in grief and solidarity following the horrific antisemitic attack at Bondi. At least 16 lives have been lost and our hearts go out to the victims, their families and the Jewish community. This terror attack is an attack on all of us. Victoria is home to some of Australia’s largest Jewish communities and many are feeling deeply shaken. We condemn antisemitism and violence in all its forms. Hate has no place in our towns and cities and no place in Australia.
This tragedy comes as many were celebrating Hanukkah a festival which symbolises light triumphing over darkness. It is heartbreaking that such darkness has overshadowed the start of this season of hope. Let us honour the spirit of Hanukkah by standing together and rejecting hate in all its forms. To the Jewish community we say we see you, we stand with you, this is your home and you should not feel afraid. Now more than ever our role at council is clear. To bring people together, to promote social cohesion and to build inclusive communities. We remain committed in our opposition to all forms of racism and violence and to ensure our cities, town and countryside remain places of safety, respect and belonging for all.’
When council opened the floor for Public Time several community members took the opportunity to respond to the statement and speak on the tragedy saying the statement went a long, long way and this kind of support has been a long time coming.
They encouraged council to debate the setting up of a formal vigil, endorsed and managed by the shire, so they could put out flowers, candles and tributes without fear.
At Wednesday morning’s vigil on the steps of the Market Building the President of the Progressive Jewish Congregation of Central Victoria and Co-Chair of the Bendigo Interfaith Council Dr. David Kram AM said the incident at Bondi was tragic.
“We are heartened by the enormous outpouring of sympathy from all corners,” he said.
“One of the first messages of support that I personally received was from the Bendigo Islamic Community.
“If we can foster good relations on a local level and transmit that to our umbrella organisations, it’s a bit like a little pebble that’s dropped in a pond and the ripples can extend in all directions.
“My message to everybody is to listen. Even if you don’t agree with you or you don’t agree with them, listen to their point of view and respect that people are just human beings. If they seem to be on the wrong track due to ignorance, point them in the direction of research material, books or podcasts that they can learn more about the situation.”
Nightly vigils have also been held at the Castlemaine Anglican Church on Agitation Hill this week. Tonight’s vigil will be an interfaith vigil and community members are welcome to attend from 5pm.