Traumatised Bondi shoppers are returning to the scene where their terror unfolded in order to retrieve their cars.
The shopping centre announced that those who had to abandon their vehicles and flee during a horrific stabbing attack by homeless man Joel Cauchi on Saturday that killed five would be able to return to collect their cars from 4pm on Sunday.
The information was posted onto Bondi Westfield’s Facebook page, along with details of the process for retrieval including where to meet staff.
While some were relieved to have access to their cars again, others found the idea of going back to site of the massacre difficult to deal with.
“I just arrived from there (got my car), feeling physically sick,” one shopper wrote on social media.
A second said it felt all too soon to collect the car today.
“I can’t do it today, it’s too soon. Do we contact the centre if we can do it tomorrow?”
While another said: “A poster asked another if they got their car: Just did! only took about 40min.”
The information was also shared onto other social media sites where it was met with an outpouring of support, including offers to help collect cars. However, those who are unable to return to collect their vehicles should contact Bondi Westfield for advice.
“To anyone who is traumatised from yesterday, its OK if you can’t go back there,” a commenter wrote. “Let the police or a family member know. Your community will help you.”
Another posted: “To each of you that where there during this horrific ordeal I’d just like to say you are not alone if you can’t/don’t want to collect your car, ask police if you give them the keys and number plate could they have an officer bring your car out to you.”
While a third said: “I hadn’t even thought about this scenario. It’s such a traumatic event with so many ripples of people indirectly affected. So so sad. Definitely reach out for support/assistance if you feel you can’t/don’t want to go back there yet.”
Many showed their wonderful hearts: “If people need someone to go get their cars and bring them out to meet somewhere, I’d be happy to help come from the Central Coast on one of my days off and get your car out for you if it’s too traumatic for you; if they would allow that of course.”
“Same here I’m out Parramatta way I’ll drive to your home and we can go from there.”
“Located nearby and can help also any day and anytime of day/night.”
“What a wonderful thought. I too am available if required, I’m only 30min away from Bondi Junction.”
Westfield vehicle collection plan
From 4pm today, Sunday 14th April, the Westfield Bondi Junction team will work with NSW Police to co-ordinate the collection of vehicles from the centre carpark.
Please follow the below instructions
• Please meet at the corner of Grosvenor and Grafton Street, Westfield Bondi Junction side (opposite the bus depot)
• From here, please follow the bollards and police path guidance to the centre access point.
When you arrive at Westfield Tower 1 Lobby
• You will be met by Westfield team members and police.
• The team will ask for your number plate to find your vehicle’s location in the system.
• The team will provide directions to your vehicle. This may be a via a different route than you are familiar with.
•️Please proceed directly to your vehicle and exit the car park. The boom gates will be raised.
• ️All vehicles in Westfield Bondi, regardless of parking period or what is displayed on the Westfield app, will not be charged for parking.
For any further enquiries please contact the Westfield customer care centre at support@westfield.com.au