Bondi massacre: Faraz Tahir’s family arrives for son’s funeral on what should have been 31st birthday
The family of Bondi massacre victim Faraz Tahir has arrived in Sydney from Pakistan, making an emotional visit to view his body on what should have been his 31st birthday.
Mr Tahir, a security guard at Westfield’s Bondi Junction shopping centre, lost his life while defending others during Joel Cauchi’s stabbing rampage on April 13.
In a statement shared on Wednesday, Mr Faraz’s birthday, older brother Muzafar Tahir said: “Faraz will be dearly missed by (his) whole family and community.”
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“Today is his 31st birthday and the family have seen his body for first time. We would like to thank the Australian public for showing love and compassion to a stranger, who became a hero.”
The family will speak publicly on Thursday to thank Australians for their support in a press conference organised by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.
Mr Tahir has been described as a cherished member of Sydney’s Muslim community and a dedicated security guard in a statement shared by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community of Australia
His funeral will be held this Friday.
“It is with heavy hearts that we also mourn the loss of Faraz Tahir, a cherished member of our community and a dedicated security guard who tragically lost his life while serving the public during this attack,” the statement said.
“Faraz Tahir, aged 30, sought refuge in Australia just a year ago, fleeing persecution in his home country of Pakistan.
“He quickly became an integral part of our community, known for his unwavering dedication and kindness. Faraz was not only a valued member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community of Australia but also actively contributed to the charitable endeavours of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth organisation.”
Mr Tahir was one of six people killed in the Bondi Junction massacre.
On Tuesday, the family and friends of another victim, Sydney architect Jade Young, gathered to celebrate her life.
Ahead of Ms Young’s funeral at The Calyx in the Royal Botanic Gardens, her family said their world had been shattered and the death of the 47-year-old had left a gaping hole in their lives.
“The loss of Jade Young at the catastrophic attack at Bondi Junction on the 13th of April has shattered our world,” said the statement released by NSW Police.
“While we have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from friends and the community, Jade’s death has left a gaping hole in our lives.
“Her children were her life, and we do not want their future to be shaped by her death.
Ms Young’s family said they had been overwhelmed by the outpouring of community support after the death of the 47-year-old at the Westfield shopping complex in Sydney’s eastern suburbs on April 13.
