Ten years ago today marks one of the darkest days in our history.

Eighty-eight Australians lost their lives in the Bali terror attacks on October 12th, 2002.

Political leaders from all sides joined together, to support the thousands of Australians in Bali for an emotional memorial ceremony.

Jon Gray reports.

TRANSCRIPT

The memorial was held in Jimbaran, not far from where bomb blasts killed two hundred and two people in Paddy’s Bar and the Sari Club.

Prime Minister Gillard was flanked by heavy security as she paused to reflect on photographs of each victim.

The Opposition leader and former Prime Minister John Howard were among those present to pay their respects.

Emotional survivor’s, friends and family of victims held back tears as they sat in the crowd.

Others lit candles in memory of those who died.

The Prime Minister spoke of the senseless loss.

Julia Gillard, Prime Minister: “The bodies of the dead and the living bore wounds from often seen war-time, but these were not soldiers.”

John Howard says a common spirit has emerged from the tragedy.

John Howard, Former Prime Minister: “One thing they have in common is a abhorence of violence and abhorrence of murder and a desire for peace and cooperation.”

Danny Hanley lost two daughters in the blast.

Danny Hanley, Victims’ Father: “When I heard of the 88 Australians who died, I always shed a tear, because my beautiful daughter Simone was number eighty eight.”

The names of each of the two hundred and two victims were read out, followed by a minute silence.

John Williamson played a moving tribute, “Flower on the Water”, he wrote after the bombings.

The Prime Minister was the first to lay a floral tribute to honour the victims.

John Lennon’s “Imagine” played in the background as other’s lined up to pay their respect.

Jon Gray, QUT News.