Western Australians can pay their respects to the lives lost in the 2002 Bali Bombings at a special commemorative service to mark 20 years since the tragic event.
On 12 October 2002, 202 people – including 88 Australians – lost their lives when bombs were detonated at a popular Kuta night spot. Hundreds more were seriously injured.
To commemorate the 20th anniversary, a public service will be held at the Bali Memorial at Kings Park at 5.30am on Wednesday, 12 October 2022.
The event – hosted by the Bali Memorial Association with support from the State Government – will give Western Australians an opportunity to honour the victims of the 2002 and 2005 bombings.
Following the service, the State Government will host a private breakfast event for those directly affected by the tragedy – survivors, as well as family and friends of victims.
To mark the 20th anniversary, a ‘Remembering the Bali Bombings: 20 Years On’ photographic exhibition will open at the WA Museum Boola Bardip from Wednesday (12 October).
Given its proximity to Bali, Royal Perth Hospital – assisted by other local organisations – played a key role in treating injured survivors that were airlifted to Western Australia.
As a tribute to the extraordinary work of the hospital staff, photographs and video testimonials from survivors and staff will be on display in the special exhibition.
The photographic exhibition will run until 28 February 2023 at the Old Gaol at WA Museum Boola Bardip.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
“Western Australians will never forget the atrocious attacks in Bali.
“The 20th anniversary is a time for our community to come together to remember the lives lost and show our support for survivors, friends and families.
“Importantly, it provides an opportunity to pay tribute to the extraordinary efforts of hospital staff that treated survivors, and the outpouring of community support in such a difficult time for so many Western Australians.
“We thank the Bali Memorial Association for the continued efforts over the past 20 years to support those affected by this tragedy.”
As stated by Bali Memorial Association Treasurer Keith Pearce:
“For those who were there and those who lost loved ones it seems like yesterday.
“The Bali Memorial Association believes it is important to continue to provide a commemoration each year and especially important on significant anniversaries such as this.
“At this difficult time, I am sure people will find comfort knowing our Government has not forgotten us.”
