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A young woman embraces a friend at Martin Place today. Source: News Corp Australia
THE tears flowed and flowers were piled high in Martin Place today after one of the most shocking random acts of violence in Sydney’s history.
A dark shadow was cast over the sunny city, as sombre city-dwellers attempted to carry on with their normal lives after last night's 17-hour siege.
Mourners gathered at the edge of the exclusion zone around the Lindt cafe, many of them sobbing and embracing each other as they relived the horror that has descended upon the nation.
It made a starkly different sight to the usual happy-go-lucky hordes enjoying the springtime offerings of Australia’s most populous city.
Now this nightmare has come true, Sydneysiders are standing in unity. But there is one underlying question.
Will the city ever return to the carefree outlook of the days when we didn’t believe this could ever really happen here?
Memorial of flowers in Martin place in tribute to the Lindt Cafe siege which ended with two hostages and the gunman dead. Source: News Corp Australia
The sea of flowers grows ever bigger around the CBD exclusion zone. Source: News Corp Australia
The public outpouring of grief is unlike any the city has seen before. Source: News Corp Australia
The Muslim community is grieving at the horrific act committed by someone claiming to follow Islam. Source: Getty Images
Nearby florists were rapidly relieved of all their stock. Source: Getty Images
A young girl holds aloft a chocolate as she joins in paying her respects. Source: Getty Images
The heartbreaking images could leave a permanent stain on the city. Source: News Corp Australia
A man plays a harmonica in memory of Tori Johnson and Katrina Dawson, who were shot dead in the siege. Source: Getty Images
Tearful Muslims pray for the victims at the makeshift memorial in Martin Place. Source: Getty Images
Tony and Margie Abbott lay flowers in the city centre. Source: News Corp Australia
This little girl’s future may feel different now terror has come to Australia. Source: AP
Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove pays his respects. Source: Getty Images
Office workers, families and tourists all shared in a day of grief. Source: News Corp Australia
Many said a prayer for these victims of a senseless killing. Source: News Corp Australia
The impact on the families of the dead and the surviving hostages will be huge. Source: News Corp Australia
The enormity of what has happened was plain to see in every face. Source: News Corp Australia
Sydney and Australia may never be the same. Source: News Corp Australia
Messages of deep sorrow spelled out the tragedy. Source: Getty Images