😱 She fled Ukraine’s war horrors thinking Australia would keep her kids safe…

Then, on a joyful Hanukkah celebration at iconic Bondi Beach, her 10-year-old daughter Matilda is gunned down in cold blood.

The heartbroken mom Valentyna speaks out: ‘I couldn’t imagine losing my daughter here… It’s a nightmare.’

Named after Australia’s anthem ‘Waltzing Matilda’ as a symbol of their new safe home – now shattered by hate.

Why does cruelty follow the innocent? This family’s story will break you.

Full devastating details below – the question no one can answer… 💔🕯️👇

Valentyna, a Ukrainian immigrant who fled her homeland seeking safety for her family, has shared her profound grief after her 10-year-old daughter Matilda was killed in the terrorist shooting at Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah celebration. The attack, which claimed 15 lives and injured dozens, has been declared an antisemitic act inspired by Islamic State ideology, shaking Australia’s Jewish community and the nation at large.

The incident occurred on Sunday evening, December 14, 2025, at the annual “Chanukah by the Sea” event organized by Chabad in a park near Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach. More than 1,000 people, including families and children, had gathered to mark the first night of Hanukkah with music, food, and the lighting of a menorah. Around 6:47 p.m., two gunmen—identified as father and son Sajid Akram, 50, and Naveed Akram, 24—opened fire from a nearby footbridge, targeting the crowd below.

Sajid was fatally shot by police at the scene, while Naveed was critically injured and taken into custody. Authorities recovered Islamic State flags from their vehicle and allege the pair had planned the attack meticulously, including reconnaissance visits and practice shooting. The Australian Federal Police have classified it as a terrorist incident motivated by antisemitism.

Among the victims was Matilda, the youngest fatality, described by her family as a bright, joyful girl who loved Roald Dahl’s book “Matilda” and brought light to everyone around her. Her parents, Valentyna and Michael, Jewish immigrants from Ukraine, had named her after the iconic Australian folk song “Waltzing Matilda” as a tribute to their adopted homeland. Michael told mourners at a vigil: “I thought that Matilda was the most Australian name that could ever exist. So just remember – remember her name.”

The family had emigrated from Ukraine years ago—sources vary between the 1990s and post-2022 invasion—seeking a peaceful life away from conflict. Valentyna, speaking tearfully at a candlelight vigil near Bondi Pavilion, expressed her devastation: “After leaving Ukraine, I was so happy that my oldest son was safe here… I couldn’t imagine I would lose my daughter here. It’s just a nightmare.” She recounted the terror, noting one gunman “just pulled his trigger on her.”

Matilda was attending the event with her parents, older brother Vadim, and younger sister. Her brother found comfort in knowing “she knew she was loved,” while the family urged the community not to let hatred prevail. Hundreds attended Matilda’s funeral on Thursday, December 18, where mourners sang “Waltzing Matilda” in her honor. Bumblebee motifs—tied to her middle name—adorned memorials, symbolizing her vibrant spirit.

Other victims included prominent community members. Assistant Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, a British-born chaplain and event organizer, was killed while helping others. Holocaust survivor Alexander Kleytman, 87, who emigrated from Ukraine after enduring Siberia during World War II, died alongside his wife Larisa at the celebration they had enjoyed for years. Boris Tetleroyd, 68, was shot dead while his son was wounded; a Bondi couple, Boris and Sofia Gurman, both in their 60s and Ukrainian immigrants, were killed attempting to confront one gunman.

Additional fatalities included French citizen Dan Elkayam, Slovak volunteer Marika Pogány, 82, former police officer and photographer Peter Meagher, and businessman Reuven Morrison, 61, among others. Victims ranged in age from 10 to 87, with international ties reflecting Australia’s diverse Jewish community.

The attack has prompted national soul-searching. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned it as “pure evil” and an assault on Australian values, pledging tighter gun laws despite the country’s already strict regulations post-1996 Port Arthur massacre. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns highlighted community resilience, while leaders called for unity against rising antisemitism, exacerbated by global tensions.

Vigils drew thousands, with surfers paddling out and swimmers holding minutes of silence. Memorials at Bondi Pavilion overflow with flowers, candles, and messages. Community figures emphasized defiance: The Hanukkah event, running for over 30 years, is expected to return stronger.

Valentyna’s words resonate deeply, raising uncomfortable questions about persistent human cruelty amid hatred. “Our little, bright girl shouldn’t have gone this way,” said her aunt Lina. As Australia mourns this Christmas season, the family’s story underscores the fragility of safety, even in places long seen as sanctuaries.

Investigations continue, with charges including murder and terrorism filed against the surviving suspect. Tips are encouraged via authorities. Support funds for victims’ families have raised significant amounts, reflecting widespread solidarity.

This tragedy echoes prior incidents like the 2024 Bondi Junction stabbings but stands out for its targeted nature, reminding communities of vigilance against hate while celebrating light over darkness—core to Hanukkah’s message.