Australian Tourists Remember Bali Bombing Victims
Australian tourists shared in the grief during a ceremony marking the 24th anniversary of the Bali bombings at the Bali Bombing Monument in Legian, Kuta, Badung, on Monday (12 October 2026). They took time out from their holidays on the island to pay tribute to the victims.
Of the 202 people killed in the Bali bombings on 12 October 2002, 88 were Australians. A sense of connection with fellow Australians led several visitors from Australia to share in the mourning and remember the victims.
Two tourists from Melbourne, Kris Vella and Blake Caddy, said they had deliberately made time to pay their respects while holidaying in Bali.
“I happen to be here at the right time. We’re on holiday and wanted to pay tribute to the 88 Australians who lost their lives, as well as all 202 people who died,” Blake said on Monday (12 October 2026).
Kris and Blake also praised the annual commemoration, saying it gave people an opportunity to remember the victims and show their respect. Blake said he was pleased to see the area around the monument gradually recovering.
“Seeing this commemoration, people come every year to show the same respect. It’s good to see this area slowly returning to how it was,” Blake said.
Sydney tourists Kylie and Jason also took time to visit the monument.
Kylie said they had visited Bali several times and always made a point of visiting the Bali bombing memorial.
“Well, we’ve been here a few times, and whenever we come here, we visit the memorial,” Kylie added.
Jason said they had come not for personal reasons, but to pay tribute to the victims, particularly the 88 Australians who died.
“It’s very sad. But stay strong, Bali. Hopefully Bali will become bigger and better,” Jason said.
The 24th anniversary commemoration at the Bali Bombing Monument in Legian, Kuta, Badung, was held in a solemn atmosphere and included a series of events. These included the Maragapuja Peace Dance, addresses by the Badung regent, the National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) and the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK), as well as testimonies from survivors.
The programme continued with interfaith prayers led by the Kuta Interfaith Harmony Forum (FKUB), songs for peace, and the laying of flowers and lighting of candles in memory of the victims.