Candlelight vigil to be held on Sunday for victims of Bondi Junction attack

by DOUGAL TSAKOLOS-STEWART

A candlelight vigil will be held on Sunday for the community to come together and honour those who lost their lives in the attack at Bondi Junction.

The mass stabbing attack on Saturday saw six people lose their lives, and a further 12 sustain injuries in hospital.

NSW Premier Chris Minns has encouraged residents to bring a candle to Bondi Beach and take part in a minute’s silence.

“This has been a devastating attack that’s touched everybody in the state, whether you knew one of the victims or not,” he said.

“This vigil will be an opportunity for the community to stand together to support and honour the victims and survivors of this horrific tragedy.”

“I hope they can draw some strength from the fact that there’s many people that are standing with them during this time,” the premier continued.

The NSW Government also stated that they would work with families impacted regarding a formal memorial service and a permanent memorial to honour the victims lost.

Currently, the flower tribute at Oxford Street mall is the primary site for anyone wishing to leave flowers.

The event, supported by Waverley Council and the government, will also include services such as counsellors and mental first aid.

Mayor of Waverley Council Paula Masselos said the vigil would mean the beginning of the healing process.

“Our community is in deep grief and this is a time to support each other and stand together,” said the mayor.

“This vigil will be an opportunity to reflect and commence healing.”

Allegra Spender MP, member for Wentworth said many in the community were still coming to terms with what had happened on Saturday.

“Sunday’s vigil will be an important opportunity for the community to come together, comfort each other, and reflect,” she said.

The vigil will begin at 5.30pm on Sunday and will take place at Dolphin Court, Bondi Beach – south of the Bondi Pavilion.