On Sunday 14th December, the Hannukah by the Sea event at Bondi was targeted by an act of terrorism leaving the Australian community devastated by its events. A team of face painters, among many other entertainers, were there, doing what they do best: putting smiles and colour on children's faces.

I contacted the Chabad of Bondi to connect me with their face painters. I have connected with Golda, one of the painters at Bondi, and she shared her harrowing story with me. Initially thinking the shots were popping balloons, the painters didn't initially sense danger. Then, hearing the urgent cries of fear, and equipment exploding from the shots from the gunman, the painting crew took cover, fearing for their lives. Their equipment was destroyed, and anything that wasn't was left in the sun for days while investigations took place.

As a fellow face painter from Melbourne, one can sometimes feel isolated in their job. Knowing that it could have been any one our fellow face painters, I want to bring our community together to support Golda and Karen who experienced terrifying scenes at the event. I want to show that we are a community that supports each other, and that we want the painters at Bondi to keep painting.

This fundraiser will help Golda and Karen from the Chabad of Bondi to replace what was lost in their kits (paint, brushes, hygiene equipment, glitter and other accessories) so they can continue to paint and spread joy to children. Funds will be transferred directly to Golda and she will share the funds between herself and Karen 50/50 to purchase face painting equipment.