National Observance | Community LIGHT WILL WIN

Light in the Darkness: Queensland Marks National Day of Mourning for Bondi Victims

Today, Thursday 22 January 2026, marks exactly 30 days since the tragic events at Bondi Beach. As a nation, we pause to honor the 15 lives lost and stand in unwavering solidarity with the families, survivors, and first responders forever changed by the darkness of December 14.

What we saw at Bondi—the loss of 15 lives—was nothing short of horrific. It was a despicable act of terror targeting innocent Australians who were celebrating Chanukkah; people gathered in joy, community, and faith whose lives were stolen by hatred and violence. The youngest, just 10 years old, had her future stolen. Our future as a country was stolen.

In a powerful display of national unity, Queensland joins the rest of Australia in a National Day of Mourning. The day is centered around a profound theme chosen by the Chabad Community in Bondi: “Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance.”

15 Pillars of Light

Tonight, 15 beams of light will pierce the night sky across Australia, including major installations in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Each pillar represents a life taken too soon—a silent, glowing testament to national solidarity.

A Commitment to Solidarity

Premier David Crisafulli has invited all Queenslanders to participate in acts of remembrance to ensure that "hate will never win" and to confront the shadows of anti-Semitism. Today is a time for unity—to remember those innocent people who died and reflect on the brave actions of those who risked their lives to intervene.

Minute of Silence: Observed statewide at 6:01 PM QLD time.

Acts of Kindness: Performing good deeds, visiting the unwell, or offering hospitality.

Symbols of Hope: Leaving a candle on your doorstep or window to signal unity.

Education: Free entry to the Queensland Holocaust Museum in Brisbane to sign the condolence book.

“Our collective strength lies in our shared values of respect, inclusion, and empathy. We grieve with the families and loved ones, and we recommit ourselves to ensuring that such acts of terror, hatred, and violence have no place in Australia.” — Official Statement, Thegoodnewsblog.org

Government buildings across the state will be illuminated in white tonight, with flags lowered to half-mast. This day recognizes not only the profound loss suffered by the Jewish community but the extraordinary humanity and bravery shown by the nation in the face of darkness.

January 22, 2026 | A day of remembrance, reflection, and resolve.