The police crime scene at Bondi Beach has officially been lifted, four days after the Sunday’s horror mass shooting that took place on last Sunday, 14 December.
NSW Police confirmed the crime scene established around Archer Park and nearby areas was released late Thursday morning after officers completed a comprehensive forensic examination.
In a statement, police said: “About 11.15am today, police released the crime scene following the conclusion of the police operation. Members of the public are advised they can access the site to remove their vehicles from the location, however the Queen Elizabeth Drive car park will remain closed to the public.”
While much of the area has now reopened, police confirmed that southbound lanes of Campbell Parade will remain closed until further notice. Officers are expected to maintain a visible presence around Bondi as the community begins to recover.
“Police would like to thank the community for their patience while the crime scene was in place,” the statement said.
In the wake of the tragedy, NSW Health has rolled out extra mental health resources for anyone impacted by the events at Bondi.
Minister for Health Ryan Park said a mental health disaster response has been activated, with trained mobile clinicians stationed across Bondi and Coogee between 8am and 8pm daily.
“As we move past the immediate aftermath of this devastating event, I want to encourage anyone who is feeling distressed, anxious or angry to seek support,” Park said.
“We have stepped up support with more resources for our existing mental health care services, to ensure help is freely available to anyone who wants it.”
Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson also acknowledged the widespread emotional impact of the incident:
“What happened in Bondi has shaken people right across Sydney and New South Wales,” she said. “Whether you were there, know someone who was, or are feeling distressed by what you’ve seen online and in the news, it’s ok to not be ok.”
Support is available through:
- Mobile NSW Health mental health teams in hi-vis vests around Bondi and Coogee.
- Safe Haven at Sydney Children’s Hospital Randwick, open extended hours (Monday 15-Friday 19 December, 10am-7.30pm).
- Headspace Bondi Junction, open weekdays for mental health support for young people.
- 24/7 hospital services, including Prince of Wales, St Vincent’s and Sydney Children’s Hospital.
- NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511.
- Transcultural Mental Health Line: 1800 648 911.
NSW Health Chief Psychiatrist Dr Murray Wright extended condolences and encouraged people to look after their mental health: “Everyone processes trauma differently. A range of feelings is a normal part of that process, so don’t be afraid to talk about what you’re going through.”
Help is available.
If you’re in distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or chat online. If it’s an emergency, please call 000.
Under 25? You can reach Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800 or chat online.
Reach out to Headspace or Beyond Blue for support, or make an appointment with your GP.
Lead image: Getty
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