First it was a kerosene attack on the office of MP Josh Burns in June and now a blatant incendiary attack on Adass Israel synagogue near the train station in sleepy Ripponlea.
While the local Jewish community is reeling in shock, despair and anger, representatives of the broader community are reaching out to reassure their neighbours.
Newly elected Cr Libby Buckingham, who represents the Balaclava Ward where the synagogue is located, has been actively involved in marshalling council and community support.
On Friday she and Mayor Crawford took to social media to condemn the antisemitic attack.
Mayor Louise Crawford said Council was horrified to hear of the suspected arson attack at the Adass Israel synagogue [this morning] and our thoughts are with the two people reported to have been injured as well as the entire Jewish and Ripponlea communities.
Our Jewish community has experienced a devastating period of antisemitism over the past year that has no place in Port Phillip or anywhere else. Whilst this incident has happened in Ripponlea, it will impact all of our Jewish residents and we want them to know we stand against all antisemitism and will continue to do so.
The City of Port Phillip has offered its support to the Adass community as well as all Ripponlea residents and traders as Victoria Police continue their investigations.
Cr Libby Buckingham, Balaclava Ward said
“I deplore the attack on the Adass Israel Shule and am deeply concerned that two members of the community have been injured in the fire. Our Jewish community is an integral part of the fabric of the City of Port Phillip and in particular Balaclava Ward and this has devastated the close-knit community of Ripponlea.
“I am working with my fellow Councillors and Officers to ensure Council provides any support requested by the Shule, congregation or members or the wider community. I know that all in Port Phillip will stand with those impacted and that our thoughts are with them.
“Like the Mayor, I want to acknowledge the devastating period of antisemitism we are experiencing as Jewish people and reiterate her words that Council stands against it.
“We choose unity” says community gethering
On Sunday morning a gathering of about 1000 people joined community leaders in a show of concern and support for the community.
Assembled in the Burnett Gray Gardens adjacent to Ripponlea station, the solemn and at times angry gathering heard from a range of speakers.
‘We choose unity’ one speaker said, ‘not just for the Jewish community but for the whole community.’
Federal MP Josh Burns whose own office was attacked earlier this year told the gathering that ‘it should never have been allowed to get this bad.’ He stressed the importance of politicians working together across party lines, and praised state MLA David Southwick for his efforts.
MLA for Caulfield David Southwick branded the arson as domestic terrorism. He also said this should never have happened. ‘How many times have we said enough is enough?’
State opposition leader John Pesutto and Liberal Senator James Paterson were also there but did not speak.
While many in the gathering were moved to cries of support or objection, the atmosphere was clearly that of a unified but highly concerned community determined to feel safe.
But there was also prayer, singing and spontaneous dancing that maintained the vibe of a community united in times of great adversity.
