Memorial service marks 20 years since Port Arthur massacre
Twenty years ago today, 28-year-old Martin Bryant opened fire on the Broad Arrow Café in Port Arthur, Tasmania, killing 35 innocent people and injuring 23 others. The country was changed forever, with the massacre prompting the introduction of strict gun control laws by the Howard Government just months after the tragedy.
Today, a memorial service will be held to honour the victims of this senseless crime, and for some survivors will mark the first time they’ve visited the site since the attack. Also in attendance will be friends and families of the victims as well as Tasmanian Premier Will Hodgman, Governor Kate Warner and former Prime Minister John Howard. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Opposition Leader Bill Shorten are also expected to attend.
Due to begin at 12.30pm, the service will include a keynote speech, wreath laying and performances by opera singer Amelia Farrugia (who narrowly escaped the gunman by minutes) and Hobart’s Collegiate Singers.
"Today is also a time when we again look to find sense in the senseless." Hodgman told AAP. "What happened that day will never define us, but the way we responded does. Just as we stood together then, we stand together today.”
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