Daily Telegraph 15th April Op-ed
Published 15 April 2024
In Sydney's eastern suburbs, Westfield at Bondi Junction is a community hub and a place we all know so well.
On the first day of the school holidays it was busy with families, shoppers and schoolkids, including my own son.
But in a few inexplicable moments the violent actions of one person shattered the peace of daily life for thousands of people.
Making sense of what happened on Saturday will take time. Right now we are a community in shock.
It is difficult to imagine the level of grief that families who have lost loved ones are going through, while the trauma for first responders and civilians who witnessed those horrific scenes is still very raw.
Over the coming days and weeks many will seek to make sense of the random violence, while mourning the loss of six beautiful and innocent Australian lives, and the wounding of several others - including a toddler.
But that may not be the only memory that ultimately defines Saturday, April 13, 2024.
We will also remember the great humanity that our community holds within its soul.
We will remember the heroic and thoughtful acts of everyday people who showed remarkable courage to save others, including the Bondi lifesaver and shop staff who provided first aid to the injured.
We will remember the bravery of a female police officer who ran towards danger and stopped the assailant, ending the senseless violence and possibly saving dozens of other lives.
We will remember the tireless efforts of paramedics, doctors and nurses.
In times like these we are reminded of the strength of our community, the enduring good in so many people.
We now see an outpouring of love and heartache for those that have been taken. This can be witnessed in the growing floral tribute from strangers, friends and community leaders at Bondi Junction.
For those who have been affected by Saturday's events, I want you to know there is support there to help and not to be afraid to ask for it.
Our children, who have seen such dreadfully confronting images, will need our gentle guidance and patience at this time.
We are close. We will help one another. That is the Australian way. We will turn to each other, not away. I encourage anyone who needs advice or support to ring the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511.
Kellie Sloane is the NSW State MP for Vaucluse
