Hello,

it's Sam from SB Creatives Photography here....

This year’s Zos Chanukah, the final day of the Chanukah festival, was a truly memorable experience. On the 1st of January 2025, I had the honour of photographing the Rally of Light at the iconic Hyde Park in Sydney. The event brought together the Jewish community and friends from across the city to celebrate the spirit of Chanukah with music, inspiration, and unity.

The vibrant evening featured the incredible Israeli musician Noy Ben Amiri, whose soulful tunes resonated through the park. His music created an electric yet heartfelt atmosphere, drawing in the crowd with a blend of traditional melodies and contemporary energy. Noy's performance felt like the perfect reflection of the Chanukah spirit – a bridge between tradition and modernity, shining a light in every corner.

Adding to the evening's inspiration, Colonel Michael Scott delivered a powerful keynote speech. His words echoed the themes of resilience, leadership, and the enduring power of light to overcome darkness. Listening to his stories of courage and reflection left an indelible impact on everyone present.

As a photographer, capturing this event was an experience like no other. The warm glow of the Chanukah candles, the stunning Sydney backdrop, and the dynamic interplay of music and speeches created the perfect canvas for storytelling through my lens. From wide shots of the crowd’s joyous faces to close-ups of Noy Ben Amiri’s passionate performance, every moment held its own story.

The Hyde Park venue added a layer of grandeur to the event, with its open skies and historic charm making it the perfect setting for a community gathering of this magnitude. Watching families, friends, and individuals come together under the same night sky reminded me of the enduring beauty of these traditions and the strength of the community spirit.

The Rally of Light was more than an event; it was a celebration of hope, unity, and the power of light to dispel darkness. I feel incredibly privileged to have been the photographer for such a significant and meaningful occasion. Each photograph I captured tells a story, and I look forward to sharing these moments with the community as a lasting memory of Zos Chanukah 2024.

Here’s to more moments like these that remind us of the light we all carry within. 🌟