A global cycle
Today marks the 100th day the remaining hostages have been held by Hamas in Gaza following the horrific incursion into Israel on October 7.
Jewish communities around the world commemorated the day with Ride To Bring Them Home Now cycling events, with riders wearing yellow ribbons on their handlebars.
In Melbourne, Zionism Victoria, with the support of other communal organisations, organised 20km and 40km bike rides with more than 500 cyclists and a family-friendly ride and rally. In all, more than 1,000 people attended the gathering, which was addressed by ALP Member for Higgins Michelle Ananda-Rajah, Liberal Member for Kew Jess Wilson, and a Melbourne couple who still have a relative being held in Gaza.
Executive Director of Zionism Victoria & Beth Weizmann Jewish Community Centre Zeddy Lawrence said, “The cycling events were incredible, bringing the community together as one, uniting behind the cry ‘Bring Them Home Now!
All cycling pics: Peter Haskin/Zionism Victoria
“The only shadow over the day was the daubing at Beth Weizmann, an act of antisemitic vandalism which stands in stark contrast to the peaceful nature of today’s rally and all the other events we’ve held.
He added, “It’s truly devastating that on the morning the Jewish world marks 100 days since the atrocities of 7th October and the 100th day in captivity of more than 130 hostages, the Jewish community in Melbourne is the victim of such a heinous and hateful attack.
“Once again, though, we are left wondering if any action will be taken against those who commit such a brazen act of antisemitism or whether the perpetrators will get away with it once more.
Pic: Supplied
“This is the second time vandals have targeted Beth Weizmann since 7th October and the latest in countless public displays of anti-Jewish sentiment and incitement across Victoria and Australia. And yet we hear next to nothing of those responsible being held to account.”
The community centre, owned by Zionism Victoria, is headquarters to a number of peak community bodies and welfare organisations, including the Jewish Community Council of Victoria, the Australasian Union of Jewish Students, the United Jewish Education Board, the Lamm Jewish Library of Australia, Access Inc, B’nai B’rith, the Netzer youth movement, the Zionist Federation of Australia, the United Israel Appeal and Zionism Victoria itself.
Other bike rides took place in Christchurch and Sydney.
