In a tragedy that has shattered Australia and reverberated worldwide, Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, and 10-year-old Matilda stand out as symbols of innocence and devotion lost in the December 14, 2025, terrorist attack on a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach. “He spread light. She embodied it,” captures the profound grief for two lives extinguished far too soon amid what authorities have declared a targeted antisemitic assault.

Rabbi Schlanger, a father of five and assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi, was a cornerstone of the local Jewish community. Born in London and serving in Sydney for nearly two decades, he was known for tirelessly spreading faith, kindness, and light—answering hatred with acts of goodness. As a key organizer of “Chanukah by the Sea,” the joyful public event marking Hanukkah’s first night, Schlanger embodied the festival’s message of hope and resilience. His cousin, Rabbi Zalman Lewis, mourned him publicly: “He leaves behind his wife and young children… we need to keep spreading light.” Chabad described him as a devoted chaplain who worked relentlessly to enrich Jewish life.

Matilda, the youngest confirmed victim, was remembered as a bright, joyful child full of life and spirit. Her language teacher launched a GoFundMe, writing: “She brought light to everyone around her.” Family and friends portrayed her as spirited and affectionate, a happy kid whose young life was tragically cut short while celebrating with loved ones. Her aunt spoke of the family’s devastation, noting even her younger sibling struggled to comprehend the loss.

The attack claimed at least 15 lives, with reports varying slightly on the toll including one gunman killed by police. Dozens more were injured during the evening event, which drew over 1,000 to Archer Park near the iconic beach. Two gunmen—a father and son—opened fire from a pedestrian bridge, turning a celebration of light into unimaginable darkness. Other named victims include Holocaust survivor Alexander Kleytman, French national Dan Elkayam, Rabbi Yaakov Levitan, and Reuven Morrison, highlighting the indiscriminate cruelty.

Amid the chaos, heroism emerged: local Muslim fruit shop owner Ahmed al-Ahmed tackled and disarmed one shooter, saving lives despite being wounded. Global leaders condemned the “pure evil,” with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese calling for candle-lighting in solidarity and King Charles III expressing horror at the antisemitic terror.

The “Chanukah by the Sea” event, meant to foster warmth and community, became a target on Hanukkah’s opening night—a festival symbolizing light triumphing over darkness. Yet, in tributes pouring in, Schlanger and Matilda’s legacies evoke that very resilience.

Vigils and memorials have filled Bondi Pavilion with flowers, candles, and embraces as the community grieves. Investigations continue into motives and potential accomplices, amid heightened global security for Jewish events.

A celebration meant to illuminate ended in profound shadow—but stories of Schlanger’s unwavering faith and Matilda’s innocent joy remind mourners why light must endure.

Two lights gone too soon, but their glow lingers in a nation united against hate.