We Choose Light and Life Over Darkness and Hate
In these dark times, we unite and reaffirm our commitment to choosing light and life over hatred.
Yesterday’s terror attack in Washington sent shock waves around the world. It was a stark reminder that Jew hate is a global problem. See a full statement below:
Avidan’s Memory Lives On
This year, at ourYom HaZikaron Commemoration, we reflected on the theme: In Their Name, We Continue. This powerful theme speaks to our collective commitment to ensuring that the memory of those we have lost lives on—not only through remembrance, but through action. We explored the many ways members of our community honour their loved ones, carrying their legacies forward.
We were honoured to hear from Monique and Michael, who shared the story of their son, Avidan, who was tragically killed on October 7 at the Nova Festival. Monique’s strength was deeply moving as she spoke of their mission: to preserve Avidan’s memory through inspiration and rebuilding.
In Avidan’s honour, the family and his friends have initiated a number of remarkable initiatives. They have commissioned a Sefer Torah dedicated to his memory for their community. They founded the Migdal Oz Association, an organisation committed to purpose-driven initiatives. Avidan’s siblings created a Nova Festival Party in his memory, hosting many of his favourite artists to celebrate his life and spirit.
Monique shared how important it was to Avidan to give his time freely—to his friends and to the wider community. In her words, their family’s goal is to transform pain into purpose, giving not only money but mobilising time and energy to honour his values and his legacy.
She also expressed how moved she was by the Wings of Hope display at the Beth Weizmann Jewish Community Centre, describing it as the very meaning of memory living on.
To learn more about Avidan’s story and the projects created in his honour, we invite you to watch the video here.
Sticker Wall - Bringing Israel to Australia
Over the past 18 months, a powerful movement has emerged across Israel—vibrant stickers bearing the smiling faces of those lost to war, terror, or captivity now adorn walls, bus stations, and shelters. Each image is paired with a quote or phrase that reflects how they lived, not how they died—reminding us that true remembrance lies in honouring life, not loss. What began as a grassroots expression of grief has become a national and now global tribute, with stickers appearing in Chabad Houses and public spaces from Thailand to Peru. Many include QR codes linking to stories and support pages, helping ensure that every soul—every world—is remembered.
This week, the movement reaches Australia. A permanent sticker wall now stands at Beth Weizmann as a space for our community to pay tribute, share stories, and connect with this ongoing act of remembrance. It is a living memorial—one that transforms grief into unity, legacy, and hope. If you have a sticker or name to add, we invite you to be part of this meaningful tribute. To learn more, click the image below.
Second Place for Yuval!
In the early house of Sunday morning, we tuned in to watch this year’s Eurovision Song Contest. We watched Yuval Raphael, a Nova Festival survivor, take the stage for Israel and earn second place in the contest, reminding us that even in darkness, we can still shine.
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