When Silence Spoke Louder Than Words: A Night of Light in Surfers Paradise

When Silence Spoke Louder Than Words

A Community Reflection in Surfers Paradise

In the late afternoon light of Surfers Paradise, the usual holiday energy of the Esplanade gave way to something far more profound. Near the Peter Lacey statue, where Hanlan Street meets the sand, a small gathering took place—not for a public demonstration, but for a moment of shared breath and collective memory.

The atmosphere was already heavy with significance as the sun remained high. Under the theme "Light Will Win," the gathering stood in quiet defiance against the darkness that has touched our country following the tragedy at Bondi Beach.

At exactly 6:01 pm, as part of the national minute of silence, the group went still. In that moment, the only sound was the rhythm of the Pacific Ocean hitting the shore. It was a local connection to a national heartbeat, joining thousands across Australia who refused to let the victims be forgotten.

In attendance to pay their respects was a small, somber group including Hon. Rosslyn (Ros) Bates and Ms. Angie Bell MP, Federal Member for Moncrieff. Their presence underscored the community's unified strength and shared mourning.

"For though my faith is not yours and your faith is not mine, if we each are free to light our own flame, together we can banish some of the darkness of the world." — Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks

While the city’s lights would only begin their official tribute later in the evening, the message was already clear: tragedy may shake a community, but it cannot break the resolve to hold onto the light of humanity.

Community Mitzvahs

In the Jewish tradition, memory is honored through action. You are invited to perform a Mitzvah—an act of kindness or moral duty—to bring light to the world in memory of the Bondi victims.

Share a Mitzvah Donate in Memory

Chabad Gold Coast
Rabbi Mosheh & Bluma Serebryanski
www.chabadgoldcoast.com.au