This week we commemorated three years since the October 7 massacre of Simchat Torah 2023. The fallout from that fateful day continues to cast a shadow over the lives of Jews across the whole world.

We remain shellshocked by the brutality of the Hamas attack and continue to be moved by the testimony of the survivors. The murderous attacks on revellers at the Nova Music festival, Kibbutznikim gathered in their own homes, and the wanton violence inflicted on children, the aged, men and women marked the worst loss of Jewish life on any day since the Shoah.

While we were all uplifted by the return of those hostages who survived, it was with indignation that we learnt of the sexual, physical and psychological violence inflicted upon them. The appalling inhumanity that allowed for the deliberate murder of babies and toddlers will not be forgotten - so many Jews will forever have the fate of the Bibas family seared in their brains.

October 7 also marked the start of the Gaza War that inflicted so much suffering to so many - Jews and Palestinians alike. It has been heartbreaking to see images of those who have lost so much.

The context of this war was quickly forgotten and Jews worldwide immediately had to experience the demonisation and delegitimisation of Israel and sustained attacks on our zionist identities. We have never felt so misrepresented and misunderstood.

This followed with the alienation of Jews from places of cultural safety.  Academia, the arts and progressive organisations all became places of hostility.

We saw a steady rise in antisemitism which began with slogans, petitions, protests, boycotts and led to firebombings, graffiti and then the murderous terrorism of Bondi on December 14 last year.

This harrowing progression of events has all added so much pain to the trauma of October 7.

While we all feel sorrow and anger and must mourn what has been lost, we can also adopt optimism and acknowledge our blessings. We continue to strengthen our Jewish community through providing rich cultural experiences, world class educational offerings and a sense of belonging. We have enhanced the sense of Jewish peoplehood and have deepened our connection to Israel and to Jewish people across the world.

In times of darkness, our unity remains our greatest strength. Through our shared values, unwavering community support, and enduring commitment to one another, we stand resilient and look forward with hope toward a brighter and peaceful future.