Flags are flying at half-mast and monuments will light up white across Tasmania tonight as the nation pauses to remember the 15 people killed in last month’s Bondi Beach terrorist attack.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff has called on Tasmanians to stand with those affected by the December 14 tragedy.
“We wrap our arms around our fellow Australians and affirm that light will triumph over darkness,” he said.
The Tasman Bridge in Hobart and Launceston Town Hall will join landmarks nationwide in lighting up white as part of a commemorative installation called the 15 Pillars of Light.
Devonport’s paranaple centre, Launceston’s Civic Square and Riverbend Seaport Bridge will also be illuminated.
Governor of Tasmania Barbara Baker has invited Tasmanians to observe one minute of silence at 7:01pm to honour those impacted.
She encouraged people to light candles as a symbol of solidarity with the Jewish community and to perform a mitzvah – an act of kindness in the Jewish tradition.
Tasmanian Labor leader Josh Willie said the day was about showing unity against hatred.
“Those who commit acts of terror do so to divide us,” he said.
“By coming together to remember and respect the victims, their families and the courageous first responders, we can show why care and compassion outlasts division and hate.”
The Chabad community in Bondi has chosen the theme ‘Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance’ for the day.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the national day of mourning last Saturday, encouraging Australians to share meals with family and friends of all backgrounds.
A memorial service at Chabad of Bondi will be broadcast nationally from 7pm tonight.
Australians can also leave messages in a virtual condolence book on the NSW Government website.
The attack occurred during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, killing 15 people and injuring 40 others.
