Content warning: This article touches on sensitive topics which may be triggering for some readers.
Celebrities have begun paying tribute to the six people who were murdered and the twelve others that were injured on April 13, during the harrowing stabbing incident that took place at Sydney’s Westfield Bondi Junction.
Australian actor Hugh Jackman took to Instagram and wrote, “My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims who lost their lives in the Bondi Junction attack.”
“To the first responders and members of the community… Your extraordinary acts of bravery are truly remarkable. With love and gratitude, Hugh,” he continued.
Former Home & Away star Tammin Sursok also paid tribute via Instagram.
“I’m completely horrified and devastated hearing the news about the stabbing and killing of six people and many critically injured in Bondi Mall, Sydney,” she wrote on her Story.
“This is my neighbourhood and a mall we visit all the time. I’m not in Sydney right now, but my heart is broken. A child was also hurt,” Tammin continued.
“This just doesn’t happen in Australia. My heart goes out to everyone and I’m just in shock.”
Furthermore, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese labelled the Bondi Junction attack a “horrific act of violence” during a press conference.
“The devastating scenes at Bondi Junction are beyond words or understanding… Tonight, the first thoughts of all Australians are with the victims of these terrible acts and their loved ones. Our nation offers our deepest condolences and sympathies”, Mr Albanese said.
He then went to Bondi Junction and, along with many other Australians, laid flowers outside the Westfield shopping centre in tribute to the victims.
Today Show host Karl Stefanovic paid tribute to the victims too but then condemned the attacker, Joel Cauchi, live on air.
“I don’t care what the excuses are, and I hope there’s a special place in hell reserved for him, given the fact that he walked past men, and didn’t do anything about it and attacked women,” Karl said.
“This offender, may you rot in hell. Forgive me for saying, but for what he’s done, I don’t care.”
The Prince and Princess of Wales also addressed the terrible events that took place.
“We are shocked and saddened by the terrible events in Sydney,” Prince William and Princess Catherine wrote on their joint X (formerly Twitter) account.
“Our thoughts are with all those affected, including the loved ones of those lost and the heroic emergency responders who risked their own lives to save others.”
King Charles issued a statement too.
“My wife and I were utterly shocked and horrified to hear of the tragic stabbing incident in Bondi,” His Majesty said.
“Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those who have been so brutally killed during such a senseless attack,” he continued.
“While details of these shocking circumstances are still emerging, our thoughts are also with those who were involved in the response, and we give thanks for the bravery of the first responders and emergency services.”
If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, help is always available. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit their website.
