Bondi Junction attack: Day of reflection a show of respect for stabbing victims
The Sydney shopping centre where six people were fatally stabbed will re-open for a day of community reflection before retail trade resumes.
Hundreds are expected to gather at Westfield Bondi Junction in the eastern suburbs to pay their respects to those affected by Saturday’s attack.
Scentre Group, which owns and operates the shopping centre, said there would be no retail trade but shops would open for business on Friday with an increased police and security presence.
Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Chief executive Elliott Rusanow said, “The centre will be quiet - it will allow for reflection to occur.”
Mr Rusanow said the number of security guards across all Westfield centres would be increased in response to the attack.
The Bondi Junction shopping centre will resume normal trading hours on Friday, although Mr Rusanow said some businesses would remain shut.
“It will be their (retailers’) choice when they want to re-open,” he said.
The re-opening will mark almost a week since six people were killed when 40-year-old Joel Cauchi went on a stabbing spree.
The Queensland man, who had a long history of mental illness, was shot dead by police inside the shopping complex.
Six people remain in hospitals across Sydney as a result of injuries sustained during the mass stabbing, including two women in intensive care.
A nine-month-old baby, whose mother Ashlee Good was among those killed in the attack, remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition.
The shopping centre reopening will be followed by a candlelight vigil at nearby Bondi Beach on Sunday evening, with a minute’s silence to honour the victims.
Premier Chris Minns said the devastating attack had touched people across NSW, regardless of whether they knew the victims.
“This vigil will be an opportunity for the community to stand together to support and honour the victims and survivors of this horrific tragedy,” he said on Wednesday.
“I hope they can draw some strength from the fact that there’s many people that are standing with them during this time.”
Lifeline 13 11 14
beyondblue 1300 22 4636
