Bass Coast Shire Council will join communities across Australia tomorrow, Thursday 22 January, in observing the National Day of Mourning to honour those affected by the terrorist attack at Bondi Beach on 14 December 2025.
The attack occurred during a Chanukkah celebration, claiming innocent lives and deeply impacting families, the Jewish community and the nation as a whole.
The day is being marked nationally under the theme "Light will win - a gathering of unity and remembrance", reflecting a shared message of hope, compassion and solidarity during a time of profound grief.
As a mark of respect, the Australian National Flag will be flown at half-mast at all Council facilities, and Berninneit, the Wonthaggi Civic Centre and The Union Theatre will be illuminated in the evening.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Rochelle Halstead, said the day was an important moment for Bass Coast to come together in reflection and unity.
Council is encouraging the community to take part in the national moment of quiet reflection at 7:01 pm, joining Australians across the country in a minute of silence to honour the lives lost and those impacted by the attack.
Community members wishing to leave a message can do so at official condolence books located at Berninneit, Grantville Transaction Centre and Wonthaggi Civic Centre.
Cr Ronnie Bauer said the attack had shaken Australians from all backgrounds.
"This was not just an attack on the Jewish community. It was an attack on all Australians. It struck at the heart of who we are as a country, a nation built on respect, diversity and the freedom to gather, celebrate faith and live without fear. Today we stand together in unity, in grief, and in hope."
Cr Halstead said the National Day of Mourning is an opportunity to reaffirm shared values of care, inclusion and mutual respect.
"This has been a deeply confronting event for many Australians and is a moment to stand together, to support one another, to acknowledge the pain felt by families and communities, and to reinforce that acts of hate will not define who we are," Cr Halstead said.
Community members are encouraged to observe the Day of Mourning in a way that feels meaningful to them, whether by attending a local gathering or pausing quietly at home to reflect.
