Nation to pause to honour Bondi victims

Australians will observe a National Day of Mourning today (Thursday) to honour the 15 people killed in the antisemitic Bondi Beach terrorist attack on December 14 last year.

Flags will fly at half-mast across the country while 15 buildings will be illuminated in white light as symbols of remembrance, including the Sydney Opera House, Bondi Pavilion, Sydney Tower and the Maritime Museum.

At 7.01pm, Australians will be invited to observe a minute of silence wherever they are, with many expected to mark the day by lighting candles, checking in on neighbours or sharing meals.

Executive Council of Australian Jewry co-CEO Alex Ryvchin said the day is an opportunity to come together in support of 15 devastated families and thousands more dealing with physical and mental trauma.

“Those taken from us were patriotic Australians, proud Jews and devoted members of our families and our community. They were kind and decent people. We should each seek to live in their image, contributing more, giving more and loving more,” he said.