Community Mourns Rabbi Eli Schlanger at Solemn Funeral Following Bondi Beach Tragedy
Sydney, Australia – A profound sense of grief permeated the air as thousands gathered in Sydney for the first funeral of a victim of the horrific Bondi Beach shooting. Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a beloved figure known affectionately as the “Bondi Rabbi,” was laid to rest, leaving a void in the heart of his community. He was among the 15 innocent lives tragically cut short when two gunmen, reportedly motivated by extremist ideology, opened fire during a festival celebrating the first day of Hanukkah.
Rabbi Schlanger, a UK-born spiritual leader who played a key role in organizing the ill-fated event, was remembered as a man of immense dedication and selflessness. His wife had welcomed their fifth child into the world just two months prior to the attack, adding another layer of heartbreak to the devastating loss.
At the funeral service, Rabbi Levi Wolff described Rabbi Schlanger’s death as an “unspeakable loss” not only for the Chabad of Bondi community but for the “entire Jewish nation.” He painted a poignant picture of a man taken too soon, “ripped away from us, doing what he loved best.” Rabbi Wolff emphasized Rabbi Schlanger’s unwavering commitment to spreading love, joy, and care for his people, stating that he “towered above as one of the highest and holiest souls” through his life and, tragically, his death.
Rabbi Yehoram Ulman, Rabbi Schlanger’s father-in-law, spoke with deep emotion, affectionately referring to the 41-year-old as “my son, my friend, my confidant.” He shared his profound regret at not expressing his love and appreciation for Rabbi Schlanger more frequently, urging the congregation to cherish and vocalize their feelings for their loved ones. Rabbi Ulman also delivered a powerful message of resilience, imploring the Jewish community not to succumb to fear in the wake of the attack. He announced that on the final night of Hanukkah, they would defiantly continue a 31-year-old tradition by lighting the final candle on Bondi Beach, a testament to their enduring spirit. “All the rabbis together, under the banner of our Chabat house of Bondi, to which Eli dedicated his life, we are going to gather in Bondi Beach,” he declared.
The funerals for other victims are scheduled in the coming days. Rabbi Yaakov Levitan’s funeral is expected on Wednesday afternoon, while the service for the youngest victim, 10-year-old Matilda, is planned for Thursday.
A Father’s Gratitude Amidst Devastation
Matilda’s father, speaking to reporters in Bondi on Wednesday, expressed his immense gratitude to the first responders and bystanders who rushed to their aid. He specifically highlighted the actions of a woman who shielded their younger daughter, Summer, during the terrifying ordeal. “I must say the biggest thank you to the lady that saved Summer,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “I don’t know who she was but she literally hugged her for the whole ten minutes of shooting.”
Prominent figures in attendance at Rabbi Schlanger’s funeral included Opposition leader Sussan Ley, New South Wales Premier Chris Minns, former prime minister Scott Morrison, and Israeli Ambassador Amir Maimon. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed his absence, stating, “I would attend anything that I’m invited to. These are funerals that are taking place to farewell people’s loved ones.”
Addressing Antisemitism and the Ongoing Investigation
The Jewish community has voiced concerns regarding the Prime Minister’s response to rising antisemitism. In response, Mr. Albanese defended his administration’s actions, detailing measures such as the appointment of the nation’s first antisemitism envoy, the strengthening of hate speech laws, and increased funding for social cohesion initiatives and Jewish institutions.
The investigation into the attack is ongoing. Authorities confirmed that one of the two accused gunmen, Naveed Akram, reportedly awoke from a coma on Tuesday afternoon after being critically injured by police during the incident. His father, Sajid Akram, was killed in the attack. Reports suggest the pair may have traveled to the Philippines in November, and police are exploring potential links to extremist groups.
The bravery of law enforcement officers during the attack was also highlighted. Police confirmed that one of the two officers critically injured, 22-year-old Jack Hibbert, who had only been on the force for four months, lost the sight in one eye. He was commended for his “courage, instinct, and selflessness” in continuing to protect others despite his injuries. The second officer, Constable Scott Dyson, remains in critical but stable condition following further surgery.
The tragic events at Bondi Beach have underscored the urgent need for continued vigilance against extremism and a commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive society for all.
