Perth's Illuminated Tribute: City Prepares for National Day of Mourning
Landmarks and government buildings across Perth and throughout Australia will be bathed in white light on Thursday as the nation observes a National Day of Mourning for the victims of the Bondi Beach terror attack. This powerful visual tribute symbolises a beacon of hope during dark times, reflecting the theme chosen by the Chabad Community in Bondi: "Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance."
Multi-Faith Services Across the City
Leaders representing all faiths and political backgrounds will attend memorial services throughout Perth to honour those affected by the violent attack that devastated the Bondi community nearly six weeks ago. One of the first services will commence at 8am at the City of Stirling's administration centre, featuring addresses from Mayor Mark Irwin and Perth Hebrew Congregation Chief Rabbi Daniel Lieberman.
This solemn gathering will include traditional mourning observances: flags will be lowered to half-mast, a minute's silence will be respectfully observed, and community leaders will lay commemorative wreaths. Opposition leader Basil Zempilas and Carine MLA Liam Staltari are confirmed attendees at the City of Stirling service.
State Leadership Participation
Later in the morning, approximately at 10am, Premier Roger Cook will join a service at St George's Cathedral, led by Anglican Archbishop Kay Goldsworthy. The cathedral service will see attendance from prominent community figures including President of the Jewish Community Council of WA Michael Levitt, WA Governor Chris Dawson, and WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch.
Premier Cook expressed his ongoing solidarity, stating: "My thoughts remain with the family and friends of the 15 people who lost their lives, those who were injured or impacted, and those who risked their lives to save others." He emphasised that Thursday provides an opportunity for all Western Australians to "reflect and recognise the impact of this tragedy and stand in solidarity with the Jewish community."
City-Wide Illumination and Memorial Displays
As dusk falls on Thursday evening, numerous Western Australian monuments will be illuminated in white, creating a unified visual memorial across the state. The list of lit structures includes:
- Optus Stadium
- Matagarup Bridge
- Mount Street Bridge
- Sky Ribbon Bridge
- Joondalup Drive Bridge
- Graham Farmer Freeway Tunnel
- Great Northern Highway Port Hedland Interchange Bridge
The City of Perth will additionally illuminate several urban assets, including Adelaide Terrace Entry Bridge, Trafalgar Bridge, Council House, Hay Street, Pier Street, and the East Perth Tunnels. Flags will be flown at half-mast at Parliament House, State and Commonwealth government buildings, Council House, and various local government landmarks throughout the metropolitan area.
National Commemorative Elements
The Federal Government declared this National Day of Mourning last week, marking the first such observance since the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022. A commemorative installation titled "15 Pillars of Light" will be unveiled at locations nationwide, with each pillar serving as a visible symbol of mourning, remembrance, and solidarity. In Western Australia, these installations will be placed at Parliament House and Albany Town Hall.
A national minute of silence will be observed at 4:01pm Western Australian time. Additionally, the Bondi Beach Attack Memorial Event organised by the Chabad of Bondi will be available for live viewing at 4pm WA time through their YouTube channel. Community members wishing to express condolences may also contribute to the Bondi Beach online condolence book.
Premier Cook concluded with a message of collective responsibility: "It is also a time to come together and consider our collective role in ensuring every Western Australian feels supported and safe." This day of national mourning represents both a tribute to those lost and a reaffirmation of community resilience in the face of tragedy.
