Flags at half mast. Picture: Peter Parks Source: AFP

I want to sob for Sydney.

The horrific events that occurred in the city I’ve called home for 28 years is beginning to sink in. How could this happen?

ARE YOU OUTSIDE NSW? SEND YOUR CONDOLENCES BELOW

It was only two weeks ago that I left Sydney for a new adventure, a bright future, ready to tackle a brave, new world.

But it’s the world I left that is likely to become the brave new world; a city deeply affected by one man wielding a shotgun and a vengeance, armed with hatred and an agenda that up until now, we had only seen through the screen.

I have been unable to find an online condolence book I can sign, so this is my chance to tell you, Sydney, that I’m mourning for you. That I’m hoping for you. That I love you.

A mourner breaks down in tears and is comforted by her partner at Martin Place in Sydney following the deadly siege that took place at the Lindt Cafe. Picture: Richard Dobson Source: News Corp Australia

There are countless Aussies overseas who wish we could pay our respects at Martin Place. Picture: Richard Dobson Source: News Corp Australia

My thoughts exactly. Picture: Richard Dobson Source: News Corp Australia

A visitor mourns at the makeshift memorial. Picture: Peter Parks Source: AFP

And it’s not just me.

As Sydney slept, New York was wide awake, watching the dramatic shootout unfold live on television.

When the barrage of bullets began, our entire office stood up in solidarity. Spanish, Japanese, Australian, American. We couldn’t believe what we were seeing.

Watching those terrified hostages scramble to safety. Watching the brave officers risk their lives for our freedom. Watching the barrage of gunfire, hearing the hailstorm of bullets rain down on Martin Place. Unsure of what this meant.

Watching the gunman’s demands and his threats, the Aussie expats sat in silence, imagining the future of our city, the shape and form it would take upon our return. What of its people?

Mourners gather to write condolence notes at Martin Place in Sydney. Picture: Richard Dobson Source: News Corp Australia

Pictures are telling the story to us Aussies overseas. Picture: Richard Dobson Source: News Corp Australia

The sense of community is incredible. Picture: Richard Dobson Source: News Corp Australia

This is incredible. Picture: Richard Dobson Source: News Corp Australia

Know there are countless Aussies reaching out from abroad and feeling the pain you feel. Know that we care, that we’re watching, and wish we could pay our respects in person, at home, in Martin Place.

Our heart goes out to families, to the hostages, to the officers, to you all.

It strengthens me to know we’re a united community, sharing in grief, united in pain, hopeful of the future.

Stay strong.