Doing their best to carry on: Webb honours Bondi victims, families

The state’s top cop says the trauma of the Bondi Junction stabbing spree will never be forgotten, as she joins hero officer Inspector Amy Scott in a special tribute one year on.

NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb has paid tribute to police, paramedics and civilians who were “all first responders” on this day one year ago when a knife-wielding killer set upon innocent shoppers, killing six people and injuring a dozen more.

Inspector Amy Scott responded alone to calls of a man wielding a knife, chasing people through the shopping centre on April 13 last year.

When Joel Cauchi charged towards her she shot and killed him.

“Today we remember the victims of one of the most horrific events in Australian history,” Commissioner Webb said before heading to Bondi Junction’s Westfield shopping centre with Inspector Scott to lay a wreath in honour of those lost.

“Our hearts are with their families who continue to endure unimaginable grief and do their best to carry on,” she said. “Hundreds of people, including police, paramedics, and civilians, were all first responders on this horrific day.

Floral tributes at Bondi Junction a year ago when six people were killed. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns were joined by local politicians. Picture: David Swift

“They are heroes, risking their own lives in an effort to save victims and nurse the wounded during what can only be described as a senseless tragedy.

“The memory and the trauma of this day will never be forgotten.”

Two commemorative display boards, recognising the community’s response in the days following the attack, have been installed in Oxford Street Mall and will remain there until April 16.

The displays include a series of photographs, images and messages collected from the floral tribute sites, as well as images from the candlelight vigil held at Bondi Beach last April.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said: “One year on, we pause and reflect on the tragic events of 13 April 2024 and remember the strength of the community in the days following.”

“Our thoughts are with the victims’ families, those injured, first responders, members of the public who carry the memory and the burden of that terrible day and whose lives were changed forever.”

NSW Police Inspector Amy Scott, with Commissioner Karen Webb, when she received the Commissioners Valour Award for her bravery at Bondi Junction. Picture: Mick Tsikas

Waverley Mayor William Nemesh said the community had “shown great strength and resilience over the past year since the horrific attack”.

“This tragic event will not define our community and we will never forget the victims and will always honour their memory.”

Scentre Group CEO Elliott Rusanow extended “our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims and all those impacted by the devastating attack”.

“It is impossible to fathom their loss. Many people were impacted and are continuing to heal and recover.

“We are grateful for the continued support the community has shown to each other and to our team and business partners.”

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