The Sydney Roosters have added their voice to a chorus of emotion in the city after the horrific stabbings at Bondi Junction on Saturday.
Six people are dead after 40-year-old Joel Cauchi went on a stabbing rampage at Westfield Bondi Junction in what was Sydney’s deadliest attack in years.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Sydney Roosters pay tribute to those murdered at Bondi Junction.
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Videos of chaotic scenes inside Westfield Bondi Junction on Saturday show people running in terror, while others try to confront the armed 40-year-old before he was shot dead by a police officer.
The Roosters say they were rocked by the shocking news.
“The past 24 hours have been some of the most difficult our community has ever faced,” the NRL club wrote in a statement released on Sunday.
“We are all shocked and devastated by the attack at Bondi Junction, where innocent people were killed and injured in a senseless act of violence.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the victims, their families, and everyone who has been affected. Our thoughts are with each one of them.
“We thank the NSW Police, paramedics, and other first responders who heroically put themselves at risk in responding to the attack, and the shopkeepers who provided shelter to those who were at risk.”
The Roosters also encouraged fans to seek help if they were struggling with the events of the weekend.
“We will feel the impact of yesterday’s horrendous attack across our community for some time,” the statement went on.
“But even in our darkest hour, there was light. Victims and members of the public acted heroically, risking their own lives to save others.
“They supported each other in their most terrifying moments, showing incredible bravery and courage.
“The days and months ahead will be difficult, but we want you to know that our club is here to support you. If you need professional support, we encourage you to reach out and access these important services and resources:
“Lifeline – call 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114, or chat online.
“Kids Helpline – call 1800 551 800, or chat online.
“Beyond Blue – call 1300 224 636, or chat online.”
Roosters players pay tribute to massacre victims
Roosters premiership player Victor Radley was lost for words when asked about the tragedy on Sunday.
“It’s horrible… horrible. I feel so sorry for any families involved,” he said.
“In Bondi, my Mrs and baby were up there the day before.”
“It’s horrible, such a horrible thing and so sad. Any families involved, I feel so sorry for them.”
Radley’s teammate Nat Butcher echoed those sentiments.
“Our thoughts and our prayers are just with the victims and the victims’ families,” Butcher said.
“Bondi Junction’s such a heart of the club and we’re all there a couple of times a week, a lot of our partners, mums, so many people this has affected. It’s just an absolute tragedy.”
AFL clubs the Sydney Swans and GWS Giants also released brief statements on the tragedies on Saturday.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic event at Bondi Junction today and are sending our condolences and thoughts to all the families affected and the brave NSW emergency service personnel. It’s been an incredibly tough day for many, stay strong Sydney,” the Swans said.
The Giants added: “The Giants extend their heartfelt sympathies to the victims and families of the tragedy today at Bondi Junction. We’re thinking of all those affected and stand strong with our entire Sydney community.”