12/17/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 12/17/2025 10:15
Randwick City Council expresses its deep sorrow and solidarity following the horrific terrorist attack at neighbouring Bondi Beach, which has claimed the innocent lives of 15 people including three beloved Randwick City community members.
Randwick Mayor Dylan Parker said the loss has been felt profoundly throughout the City, highlighting the strong connection and shared sense of community between the neighbouring council areas.
"Our hearts are broken by this senseless violence. What happened at Bondi Beach has been felt right across Randwick City," Mayor Parker said.
"Council extends its deepest condolences to all the families and friends who lost loved ones in the heinous attack on Sunday, and to the broader Bondi community.
"The loss of three people in our own community - Matilda Britvan, Alex Kleytman and Peter Meagher - in the atrocious attack is heartbreaking beyond words. Our thoughts are with their families and loved ones, and we stand beside them in grief and solidarity. This tragedy reminds us of the strength of our community and the importance of compassion during such dark times."
Matilda Britvan
We remember Matilda Britvan, a beloved 10-year-old student at La Perouse Public School, whose life was tragically taken over the weekend.
Matilda is remembered as a bright, kind and happy child who brought warmth to her school community and to everyone who knew her.
Her father Michael, originally from Ukraine, said her daughter was named Matilda as the name is iconically Australian and "she was our first Australian".
The loss of such a young life has deeply affected families, classmates and the wider community. Council extends its heartfelt condolences to Matilda's family, her school community at La Perouse Public School, and to all those grieving her passing.
Though her life was far too short, Matilda's warm smile and bright presence will never be forgotten.
The family have asked people draw bees and post them to social media in her honour as her middle name was B.
Alex Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman was a Matraville resident and a much-loved member of Sydney's Jewish community. A native of Ukraine, Alex was a Holocaust survivor who endured unimaginable hardship in his early life, including displacement and harsh conditions in Siberia, before later emigrating from Ukraine and making Australia his home.
A retired civil engineer, Alex was known for his resilience, quiet strength and deep commitment to family and community. He and his wife Larisa, married for 57 years, were celebrating Hanukkah on Bondi Beach - a tradition they cherished for many years - when the attack occurred.
Alex is remembered as a man defined by resilience and devotion to family, leaving behind two children and 11 grandchildren.
Council extends its deepest sympathies to Alex's family, friends and loved ones, and honours his remarkable life, courage and enduring contribution to our community.
Peter Meagher
Peter "Marzo" Meagher's lifelong commitment to service and community leaves a lasting legacy in Randwick City.
Peter served with distinction in the New South Wales Police Force for 34 years, retiring as a Detective Sergeant after a career defined by integrity, professionalism and care for others.
He was also a deeply respected figure in the Randwick rugby community, where he volunteered his time for many years as a team manager, referee and mentor, continuing a proud family connection to the club.
Peter, a passionate photographer, occasionally freelanced at community events, including the Hanukkah gathering at Bondi.
Peter was known for his generosity, leadership and quiet kindness, and for the way he brought people together through service and sport. Council extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends and the many communities he enriched. He will be remembered as someone who truly embodied the spirit of community.
Support services
The NSW Government is coordinating a range of information and support services for people affected by the Bondi Beach shooting.
More information is available on the NSW Government's dedicated support web page.
Last Updated: 17 December 2025
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