Australia to Observe National Day of Mourning for Bondi Beach Attack Victims
Table of Contents
A nation grieves as Australia prepares to observe a National Day of Mourning this Thursday, January 22nd, to honor the 15 victims and those impacted by the tragic terror attack at Bondi Beach last month. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called on Australians to participate in acts of remembrance and kindness as the country collectively mourns.
A Day to Remember and Reflect
The Australian government occasionally declares national days of mourning to acknowledge significant tragedies or the loss of prominent figures. Last Saturday, Prime Minister Albanese formally announced the day of mourning for those lost in the Bondi attack, emphasizing the need for national unity during this difficult time.
How the Day Will Be Marked
The Chabad Community in Bondi has established the theme for the day as “Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance.” This sentiment will be visually represented across the country, with national institutions in the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales illuminating their buildings as “symbols of light” on Thursday evening. Other institutions nationwide are encouraged to follow suit.
A poignant commemorative installation, the “15 Pillars of Light,” will be erected in Canberra and various cities throughout Australia. According to a government statement, each pillar will serve as a powerful symbol of mourning, remembrance, and national solidarity. Flags will be flown at half-mast on all Commonwealth and NSW government buildings throughout the day as a further mark of respect.
A memorial service hosted by the Chabad of Bondi will be held at 7:00 PM AEDT, accessible via live stream and on Sky News. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) will observe a minute of silence during its television and radio broadcasts at 7:01 PM AEDT.
Participating in the Day of Mourning
Prime Minister Albanese is urging the public to participate in a minute of silence at 7:01 PM AEDT. A virtual condolence book is available on the NSW government website, providing a space for Australians to share messages of support and remembrance.
Beyond the minute of silence, Australians are encouraged to engage in several acts of compassion and connection, including:
- Sharing a meal and spending time with family and friends of all faiths and backgrounds.
- Leaving a candle on their doorstep or front windows.
- Undertaking a mitzvah, an act of kindness and compassion.
Australians are encouraged to display candles in their front windows as a visible sign of remembrance.
Understanding the Concept of a Mitzvah
A mitzvah is a central tenet of Jewish tradition, representing an act of kindness and compassion. These acts, often integrated into daily life, aim to improve the world – a core Jewish value known as tikkun olam. Since the attack, Jewish faith leaders have encouraged Australians of all backgrounds to perform mitzvahs to foster unity and honor those who have been lost.
“These acts can be as simple as checking in on a neighbor, volunteering time, offering support to local businesses, or donating to those in need,” stated a joint release from Prime Minister Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns.
The Prime Minister’s office has suggested 15 specific mitzvot, including:
- Giving to others through charitable donations.
- Offering support to those who are unwell.
- Helping family members or elders.
- Extending hospitality to others.
- Practicing safe and respectful travel.
- Prioritizing family time.
- Expressing gratitude.
- Reflecting with intention.
- Caring for animals.
- Working with integrity.
- Offering warmth and positivity.
- Cherishing loved ones.
- Praying for healing.
- Teaching children about goodness.
- Empowering future generations with hope.
You can write messages to honour the victims in a virtual condolence book.
Day of Mourning Not a Public Holiday
Thursday will not be designated as a public holiday. While businesses are welcome to acknowledge the day if they deem it appropriate, there is no requirement to suspend operations. The focus remains on individual and collective acts of remembrance and support.
