The Sydney community came together on Monday to bid an emotional farewell to Dan Elkayam, one of the 15 people killed in the devastating terror attack at Bondi Beach on December 14.
A Life Celebrated in Sydney's East
Mourners gathered at the Chevra Kadishra Memorial Hall in Woollahra to honour the 27-year-old French engineer. Elkayam, who arrived in Australia just two years ago, was remembered as a vibrant young man dedicated to his faith, his love of travel, and his passion for soccer.
He lived with his partner in Sydney's eastern suburbs and was a talented Premier League 1 player for Rockdale Ilinden FC. The club recently paid tribute, describing him as an extremely talented and popular figure amongst his teammates.
Remembered as a 'True Light'
Friends and family painted a picture of a joyful and inclusive man. A friend told French outlet Le Parisien that Elkayam was a "true light" who was "always smiling."
"He grew up in a housing project in Le Bourget, so you could say he truly represented suburban Jews," they said. "He really embodied diversity; he didn't discriminate based on religion. He was a light for everyone."
A Message of Defiance and Hope
During the poignant service, Rabbi Chaim Koncepolsky addressed the mourners with a powerful message directed at the evil that took Elkayam's life.
"We are hurt, but we are not broken. We're not going to let Dan's murder go by and just hurt us," the rabbi stated.
In a defiant and hopeful declaration, he added, "His murder is going to be a catalyst for so much good that you can't imagine."
The service marked a heartbreaking chapter for Sydney's community as it continues to heal from the tragedy that unfolded at the iconic Bondi Beach.
