Waverley Council has endorsed a $100,000 financial commitment from its operating budget towards community organisations providing direct support to affected members of the Jewish community, following an emergency meeting held last night.
The meeting was convened to decide on immediate and longer-term supports for the Jewish community following Sunday’s devastating terrorist attack.
“This recognises the immense impact of this despicable and barbaric attack on the Jewish community,” said Mayor, Will Nemesh.
“Together, we must stand firm together in solidarity to honour the victims and support each other during this tragic time.”
Council resolved to delegate the General Manager to distribute the funds to priority organisations in consultation with Cr Nemesh and Deputy Mayor Keri Spooner.
The Mayoral Minute presented by Mayor Nemesh at Tuesday’s emergency session of Council comprised 12 points covering public displays of mourning and solidarity as well as practical and immediate efforts to aid healing and resilience.
Among them, Council resolved to make available a dedicated community space where affected members of the Jewish community can gather to seek comfort and connection.
The Mayoral Minute also resolved to fly all flags on Council buildings at half-mast for two weeks.
It also called for the local community to light a candle each night at 6.47pm for the duration of Chanukah in solidarity with the Jewish community and to honour the victims of the tragedy.
“First and foremost, Council resolved to issue a condemnation of the devastating loss of life and the horrific display of senseless violence on 14 December, targeting the Jewish community as they gathered to celebrate the first night of Chanukah – one of the most joyous events on the Jewish calendar,” Mayor Nemesh said.
“With the passing of this Mayoral Minute, we also extended our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and all those affected. We stand with the community in mourning, offering our heartfelt sympathy and unwavering support during the profoundly difficult time.
“Council also commended the extraordinary bravery of first responders, including Council lifeguards, events and venue staff, surf lifesavers and community members, who showed tremendous bravery and acted quickly to bring people to safety provide first aid and CPR to victims.
“We also expressed our sincere thanks and gratitude to the enormous number of police and emergency services personnel who responded swiftly on Sunday night.”
The Mayoral Minute also noted that Council officers are working closely with the NSW State Government to develop a protocol for the preservation of messages and the treatment of floral tributes left at the Bondi Pavilion by members of the community.
