The mayor announced that all notes and cards left among the flowers in the memorial for the victims would be collected and stored at the library for safekeeping. This process is being done to ensure that all messages of support and condolence are treated with respect. The flowers will be collected early the following week, and plans for a permanent memorial on the plaza are in progress, with an estimated completion time of two years to accommodate input from families and the wider community.
Despite the normal hustle and bustle returning to the shopping center, reminders of the tragic event that occurred on Saturday were still present. Black ribbons remained on screens throughout the center, and tributes such as flowers and condolence books continued to be placed on Level 4. In particular, two bouquets of flowers remained at the Chanel store where two victims were killed. The atmosphere in the shopping center was gradually returning to normal, with gentle piano music welcoming customers and staff as they went about their day.
Following the attack by Joel Cauchi, police investigators have been working to gather more information about the offender. Investigators from NSW Police travelled to Queensland to interview individuals who were familiar with Cauchi, including his family and friends. The goal of these interviews is to gain insight into his motives and mindset. Despite these efforts, much work remains to fully understand the circumstances that led to the tragic events. Additionally, six individuals injured in the attacks are still hospitalized across the city as they continue to receive medical treatment and support.
As authorities work to piece together the events leading up to the attack, the wider community has been encouraged to respect the privacy and emotions of those affected by the tragedy. The mayor emphasized the importance of allowing individuals to process their feelings in their own time and space, and not to try to engage them in discussion unless they express a desire to talk. This approach is aimed at supporting the mental and emotional well-being of those directly impacted by the events, allowing them to grieve and heal at their own pace.
The ongoing efforts to address the aftermath of the tragedy include plans to establish a permanent memorial for the victims on the plaza. However, this process is expected to take around two years to ensure that the wishes of families and the wider community are taken into consideration. The collection of notes and cards from the memorial, as well as the continued display of tributes in the shopping center, serve as reminders of the lives lost and the impact of the event on the community. Through these gestures, the community is coming together to honor the memory of the victims and provide support to those affected by the tragedy.
