While parts of the shopping centre have seen a return of customers – mostly grocery shopping – the luxury fashion stores and food court remain quiet.
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Michael Dunkley and his wife,Amornrut Kamhom,were working at their cafe,Luxe Bar,when the chaos erupted. He herded customers and his wife into a safe room before chasing down Cauchi,ending up behind NSW Police Inspector Amy Scott when she shot the attacker dead.
Dunkley said with the luxury fashion stores quieter than ever and shoppers going to other centres after the attack,the food court businesses have been decimated. Chanel,one of the many scenes of violence,remains closed.
He said the business lost $20,000 in stock in the days they were forced to close,and the cafe is still losing money every day as customers stay away from the “mausoleum” atmosphere.
“I don’t know how we get more people to come in and support the local businesses,but we need it badly,” Dunkley said.
“It’s literally empty. It should be pumping,it’s the school holidays,movies are on,kids should be running everywhere – it should be alive.”
Dunkley,Mohana and several other business owners who spoke to this masthead said while they want more support from either Westfield owner Scentre Group or the state government to ease their financial woes,they need a groundswell of public support to keep their heads above water.
“This weekend is the perfect time to bring the family back to the shopping centre and support the small business owners,it’s never been safer,” Dunkley said.
Security guards have been given stab-proof vests and businesses say there is a more visible police and security presence in the centre.
A spokesperson for Scentre Group said most businesses were now open for trade and the remaining were expected to open in the coming days.
“As announced last week,we are providing both financial and non-financial support to all Westfield Bondi business partners during this very difficult period,” they said.
“This includes our decision to waive rent between 13-19 April.”
Minister for Small Business Steve Kamper said the government is exploring options for providing additional support to businesses and employees impacted. The government previously announced a free advice service for employers and free mental health training for businesses to support their employees.
“We are encouraging people from across Sydney to wrap their arms around this community and support the local small businesses that have been impacted by this tragedy,” he said.
Customers returning to Bondi Westfield who would like support can call the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511.