Bondi Junction Westfield reopens after stabbing tragedy
Bondi Junction Westfield has reopened five days after the devastating stabbing tragedy that claimed the lives of six people and injured several others.
Before the centre opened at 11am on Thursday, dozens of people lined up to pay their respects to those who have died at the "community reflection day" held at the centre.
The centre was lined with images of black commemorative ribbons to honour those who lost their lives on Saturday, when 40-year-old Joel Cauchi went on his stabbing rampage through the centre.
Speaking from inside the Westfield today, one woman told news.com.au said she was returning to the centre with her toddler because she works in one of the stores and wanted to get used to going inside again after the tragic events.
Another man said he felt compelled to come today because “everyone in Sydney has been to Bondi Junction at some point”.
He noted how it felt “weird” to be there but he thought it was important the victims didn’t go “unseen”.
Similarly, a young woman that works down the road in nearby Eastgate shopping centre said she was here today to “pay her respects”. She also noted it felt like the “safest” day to return to the shopping centre because of the ramped up police presence.
Scentre Group, which owns and operates the shopping centre, said there would be no retail trade on the day of reflection, but shops would open for business on Friday with an increased police and security presence.
“The centre will be quiet — it will allow for reflection to occur,” chief executive Elliott Rusanow said.
The shopping centre will resume normal trading hours on Friday, although Rusanow said some businesses would remain shut.
“It will be their (retailers’) choice when they want to re-open,” he said.
“This has been a very difficult time and I want to acknowledge the hard work and tireless efforts of our Westfield Bondi and Scentre Group teams,” Mr Rusanow said.
“They have been working through conditions which have been devastating in their minds and in all our minds."
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.
“I hope they can draw some strength from the fact that there’s many people that are standing with them during this time.”
Image credits: Getty Images