Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli, joined by Strong Community Portfolio Councillors David Law and Taylor Bunnag, Rabbi Oshy Goodman and Police Chief Inspector Jason Overland, stood together today to extend deepest condolences and unwavering support to the Jewish community here on the Sunshine Coast and across Australia.
The shooting at Bondi Beach on Sunday has deeply impacted our local community.
Mayor Natoli reaffirmed the values of care and tolerance, standing in solidarity with the Jewish community during Hanukkah and reaffirming the Sunshine Coast's commitment to unity, safety and inclusivity in the face of violence.
Statement from Mayor Rosanna Natoli:
"The Sunshine Coast community is shocked and saddened by the events that we've seen transpire in Sydney.
"We stand together with our Jewish community to say that this violence, this hatred, this display of anti-Semitism has no place in our society.
"Our Sunshine Coast community is a beachside community, much like Bondi.
"The rabbi who was killed yesterday in Sydney had spent time here on the Sunshine Coast, so there are people living in our community who had very close links.
"The Sunshine Coast community is one of warmth and welcome and we are standing with our Jewish community this Hanukkah, as always, to say this violence is completely unacceptable. We will stand in unity.
"On Thursday night, we will gather here in Foundation Square and light the Menora with our Jewish community.
"We're encouraging everyone who wishes to show that our Sunshine Coast community is united on this front, to join us here on Thursday night, and then again, in Tickle Park on Sunday.
"As a community, we can send a strong message that we stand with our Jewish community, that we believe in safety, and we believe in freedom.
"It is also our opportunity to show that we are a welcoming and diverse community.
"Here on the Sunshine Coast, we will express kindness, we will express love, and we will express tolerance.
"On behalf of all Sunshine Coast residents, on behalf of our Councillors and on behalf of our Council, we express our deepest condolences to all of the family and friends of the people affected by this terrible tragedy, and to the Jewish community more broadly."
This news can be confronting, so remember you can call:
- Queensland Public Mental Health service: 1300 642 255
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 | Text 0477 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
- 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732
- 13YARN: 13 92 76
- MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78
How you can stand in solidarity
Torah reading and Menorah lighting
- Thursday 18 December, from 5pm
- Foundation Square, corner Lightning Lane and South Sea Islander Way, Maroochydore
