Westfield Bondi Junction to resume trading this morning, six days after deadly stabbing spree
The shopping centre has remained closed since Cauchi, 40, embarked on his attack last Saturday afternoon.
Police closed the crime scene there early this week, but operators Scentre Group opted to hold off the resumption of trading.
Flowers and tributes have piled up outside, including a wreath laid by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and flowers and a message from opposition leader Peter Dutton.
The centre opened yesterday for a “day of reflection”, with members of the public allowed inside to pay their respects, but no shops were open and the digital advertising screens showed only black ribbons as a mark of mourning.
Today, though, as Sydney resumes its normal pace, normal trading hours will resume from 9.30am to 6pm.
Some stores may remain closed by choice.
“Since the tragedy last Saturday, our priority has been engaging with the victims’ families, those directly impacted and the community on how to respond,” Scentre Group CEO Elliott Rusanow said yesterday.
“We have been engaging directly with our business partners throughout this period to support them, including providing counselling and mental health support.”
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There will be an increased security presence on site, including extra police, while security guards will be given stab-proof vests.
The centre will also remain quiet, with no loud music and no advertising, at least for today.
Scentre Group announced yesterday it would waive the past week’s rent for all tenants of the shopping centre.