😢 EXCLUSIVE: The last joyful photos of smiling 10-year-old Matilda – beaming with face paint and hugging her family at Bondi Beach… just minutes before terror struck.

She was nicknamed “Bee,” loved animals, dancing, and was called a “ray of sunshine” by everyone who knew her.

But in a heartbreaking twist, these happy snaps from the Hanukkah celebration capture her final moments of pure innocence – before two gunmen turned Australia’s iconic beach into a nightmare, claiming her life and 14 others in the deadliest attack the nation has seen.

The most shocking detail? She was running to her father for safety when the shots rang out… and died in his arms.

Why did this happen at a family holiday event? Who were the monsters behind it? And how is her devastated family coping?

These images will break your heart… Click to see the photos and read the full gut-wrenching story. 👇

Heart-wrenching photographs of 10-year-old Matilda, smiling brightly with face paint and surrounded by her loving family, have been released by relatives just days after she became the youngest victim of Australia’s deadliest terrorist attack at Bondi Beach.

The images, captured on December 14, 2025, show Matilda – affectionately nicknamed “Bee” after her middle name – enjoying the “Chanukah by the Sea” celebration moments before chaos erupted. In one photo shared with media, she poses in a yellow dress, her face adorned with colorful paint, radiating the joy of a child at a family holiday event.

Tragically, these snapshots mark her final happy moments. Shortly after, two gunmen – identified by authorities as a father-and-son duo inspired by Islamic State ideology – opened fire on the crowd, killing 15 people and injuring dozens more in what police have declared a targeted antisemitic assault.

Matilda, whose family immigrated from Ukraine seeking a safer life, was among those fatally shot. Reports indicate she was running toward her father, Michael, for protection when struck, ultimately dying in his arms despite desperate efforts by bystanders and first responders.

Her mother, Valentyna, spoke emotionally at a vigil on December 16 at Bondi Pavilion, expressing disbelief: “We came here from Ukraine… and I could not imagine I would lose my daughter here.” The family had named their firstborn Matilda as a tribute to Australia, inspired by the iconic song “Waltzing Matilda,” considering it “the most Australian name ever.”

Hundreds gathered for Matilda’s funeral on December 18 at Chevra Kadisha Memorial Hall in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. Mourners adorned the scene with yellow toy bees, bee stickers, and balloons – symbols her father requested to honor her nickname and vibrant spirit. Purple accents, her favorite color, were prominent, and attendees clutched stuffed animals and framed photos of the girl described as a “ray of sunshine” who loved animals, dancing, school, and the outdoors.

Rabbi Yehoram Ulman, leading the service, paused to compose himself while eulogizing Matilda’s short but joyful life. Her aunt, Lina Chernykh, told reporters: “Maybe she’s an angel now… maybe she [will] send some good vibes to the world.” The family urged the community not to let grief fuel anger, emphasizing love and unity instead.

Matilda was one of 15 victims in the attack on the Hanukkah event organized by Chabad of Bondi. Others included Assistant Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, a father of five who helped plan the festivities; Holocaust survivor Alex Kleytman, 87, who reportedly shielded his wife; and great-grandfather Tibor Weitzen, 78. The victims ranged in age from 10 to 87, including international citizens from France and elsewhere.

The gunmen, Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, were killed during the incident – one by police, the other reportedly in the exchange of fire. Authorities recovered homemade Islamic State flags and improvised explosive devices from their vehicle, confirming the terrorist motivation. Investigations revealed the pair had traveled to the Philippines in November 2025, prompting scrutiny of potential training or radicalization abroad.

A hero emerged in the chaos: Muslim security guard Ahmed Al Ahmed, who tackled one gunman, disarming him at great personal risk. He was later gifted millions in community donations for his bravery.

The attack, occurring on one of Australia’s most famous beaches during a family-oriented Jewish holiday gathering featuring a petting zoo, barbecues, and music, has shocked the nation. Bondi Beach, synonymous with surf, sun, and inclusivity, transformed into a scene of horror as hundreds fled or sought cover.

In the aftermath, memorials overflowed with flowers, bees, and tributes. A national day of reflection on December 21 saw thousands observe a minute’s silence at Bondi, with bee balloons released and “Waltzing Matilda” sung in her honor. Paddle-outs by surfers and lifeguards paid respects, while increased security – including armed officers – became a somber new normal.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese promised tougher hate speech laws and a review of gun regulations, noting the attackers’ access to firearms despite background concerns. One gunman had held a license for years, raising questions about oversight.

The Jewish community, already on edge from rising antisemitism post-October 2023 Middle East conflict, expressed profound grief. Leaders called for unity, rejecting division. Chabad statements emphasized resilience: “The light of Hanukkah will triumph against darkness.”

Matilda’s former school, Harmony Russian School of Sydney, honored her as part of their “school family.” Friends described her as friendly, with “lots of friends” who adored her.

Her surviving younger sister witnessed the tragedy, adding layers to the family’s pain. Brother and other relatives spoke of comfort in knowing Matilda “knew she was loved.”

As Christmas approached, the nation grappled with the timing – a holiday season marred by loss. Blood donations surged to record levels, reflecting community solidarity.

Photographer accounts highlighted the innocence captured in Matilda’s final images. One recalled printing family photos on-site, including Matilda proudly hugging her sister.

The broader probe continues, with federal agencies examining intelligence failures – a 2019 investigation into one suspect was reportedly dropped. Philippine authorities confirmed the duo’s month-long visit but found no evidence of unlawful activity there.

For Bondi locals, the iconic beach feels changed. Residents report unease, yet determination to reclaim normalcy. “This is the Australia we want,” community figures stressed, echoing calls for compassion over hate.

Matilda’s story has become a focal point of national mourning, symbolizing lost innocence. Her beaming photos, now widely shared, serve as a poignant reminder of what was stolen on that sunny afternoon.

As vigils continue and funerals conclude, Australia reflects on preventing future horrors. Strengthened laws, community outreach, and interfaith efforts are underway.

The bee motif endures – plush toys, crochet butterflies, pavement art – a sweet emblem for a girl whose light was extinguished too soon.

In her father’s words at a memorial: She was his “Bee,” a child full of joy in a land they chose for safety. The nation now vows to honor her by fostering the inclusive Australia her family sought.