Yass Valley Candlelight Vigil for Bondi

Published on 22 December 2025

Despite the rain, the Yass Valley community came together for a moving candlelight memorial vigil to honour and remember the 15 lives so tragically lost in the Bondi Beach terrorist attack.

The vigil was attended by Mayor Jasmin Jones, Michael McCormack MP, leaders from the Jewish community and Combined Churches Yass, and with thanks to the Yass RSL for their support.

It was a powerful message of solidarity, hope, goodwill and peace, as civic and faith leaders, along with members of the Yass Valley Jewish community, addressed a gathering of more than 130 people. A deeply moving firsthand account was shared by a local Jewish family who spoke of losing friends and the profound impact the tragedy has had on their family and community.

Candles were lit and a moment of silence and reflection was observed at 6.47pm, in line with the National Remembrance. Candles were then placed in sand in acknowledgement of the victims and their families in Bondi, where the tragedy occurred one week ago. Those who were injured, and those who remain hospitalised, were also held in the prayers of those present.

Heartfelt thanks were expressed to our first responders, particularly police and health workers, for their courage and tireless work.