A Letter From Our CEO On The Recent Bondi Attacks

Dear Investors,

Today, I write to you with a heavy heart. As a proud Australian and a proud Jew, I am devastated and sickened by the senseless targeting and murder of so many innocent people. I am saddened by what has happened to our once great nation, where hate has inexcusably been allowed to fester. I can’t help but think that this tragedy was avoidable, and should never have happened. Everything now needs to be done to ensure that this hatred is tackled, by all of us, and with every available resource, so that our country can once again be a safe and secure haven – for all Australians. 

Australian Jews have formed a core part of our society’s fabric since the arrival of the first fleet, and have contributed immensely to this country’s history through many streams such as medicine, commerce, military, sport, and philanthropy. It is essential that this act of terrorism is recognised as not just an attack on Jews but above all, an attack on Australians. 

In Judaism we believe that the life of every person is sacred and that if you take one life, then it is like destroying the entire world. And this is what has happened, the entire worlds of so many people have been destroyed by the murder of their grandparents, mothers, fathers and children. 

The youngest was 10-year-old Matilda and in the aftermath of the tragedy, I had the honour of listening to Matilda’s mother, father and brother speak about their wonderful little girl. These were the most heart wrenching words I have ever heard, and the pain of this beautiful family is something I will never forget. 

Matilda’s second name was Bee and her family requested to do something for them – to never forget their baby, and to post a Bee everywhere in her memory. Pengana will be placing the Matida Bee, holding a Hanukah Menorah, on all our newsletters, not only to remember Matilda but also all the special souls who were so tragically taken from their loved ones on the first day of Hanukah 2025. 

I encourage all Australians to do their part by calling out antisemitism whenever you see it, both online and offline; learn more about Jewish culture and traditions; educate your kids at schools and at the dinner table; and call for your local MPs to have zero tolerance for this hatred, calling it out whenever they see it. 

I wish everyone strength and peace for the year ahead – happy holidays, and a Merry Christmas – hoping and praying that the light outshines the unbearable darkness, and our beautiful country can return to the harmonious and unconflicted land that it once was. 

Russel Pillemer, CEO