The National Day of Mourning for the victims of the December 14 Bondi Beach shootings will be marked today with a minute of silence and lights in the sky.
Everyone is invited to observe the one-minute of silence at 6.01pm (Queensland time).
Premier David Crisafulli said the theme for the day, chosen by the Chabad Community in Bondi, was “Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance.”
In line with this theme, 15 Pillars of Light will beam into the night sky in 15 locations across Australia including Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
Each pillar serves as a visible symbol of mourning, remembrance, and national solidarity.
Government buildings and other structures in Queensland will be illuminated in white, and flags will be flown at half-mast.
Mr Crisafulli said other suggestions to mark the day included:
- Sharing a meal and spending time with family and friends of all faiths and heritage
- Leaving a candle on your doorstep or in your window
- Doing a good deed such as giving to others
- Visiting someone who is unwell
- Offering hospitality at your home
- Taking the time to speak to others.
The Queensland Holocaust Museum and Education Centre at Charlotte Street in Brisbane is offering free entry today and visitors can share messages in its condolence book.
Fifteen people died on Sunday December 14 last year when two gunmen opened fire on a Jewish community event at Bondi Beach in Sydney.
Mr Crisafulli said today was a time for unity, “to remember those innocent people who died and reflect on the brave actions of those who risked their lives to intervene”.
“(The 15) pillars of light are a symbol that hate will never win, and as a state we must all join forces to stamp out the anti-Semitism that has been allowed to grow in the shadows of our society,” he said.
In a statement released today, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Bondi was not just as a beach, but “a part of our promise to the world”.
“(It is) A welcoming embrace,” he said. “That famous crescent of sand and water where there is room for everyone. A place where nothing should break but the waves.”
“And yet there on that most fateful of evenings, our hearts were collectively shattered.”
Mr Albanese said today Australians stood in solidarity with the families of the victims and to affirm the shared values of unity, compassion, and resilience that define Australia.
