Around 11.00pm on 12 October 2002, three bombs detonated in two of Bali’s most popular nightspots and another in front of the American Consulate, killing 202 people, including 88 Australians.
Long held of one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations, it was a terrorist event that shocked this country to its core.
On the eve of the 20th anniversary of the Bali Bombings, LiSTNR and Network 10 have launched an audio documentary series, Shockwaves: The Bali Bombings, exploring the lives of people in Australia and Bali impacted by the Bali Bombings.
Hosted by 10 News First Senior Journalist, Ali Donaldson, the deeply emotional podcast series reveals the astounding journeys that the tragic event has taken on the victims, both emotionally and physically.
Shockwaves: The Bali Bombings opens with exclusive recollections of the night the bombs went off in The Sari Club and Paddy’s Bar. Moving through the initial horror, to the unexpected heroes who helped rebuild lives, to the investigators and trials of the perpetrators.
Real life twists saw some of those who lost loved ones forgive the bombers, and how they now work together for a better future.
Australia suffered the largest loss of lives in the bombings, with many people injured in the blasts staying to help others. Almost 200 Australians were formally recognised for their bravery.
Ali Donaldson says, “I was sent to Bali 20 years ago to cover the bombings for 10 News and was struck by the incredible acts of humanity in the face of such horror. I’ve stayed in touch with people and this year spoke extensively to some of the survivors, investigators, and medics.
“Revealing never before heard details from those that were there, these are stories of the deepest despair but equally incredible hope and humanity. All have experienced amazing twists in their lives and what they’ve learned I think could help many others struggling with life’s challenges.”
SCA Head of News and Information, Melanie Withnall, says, “It has been a privilege for our team to help Ali Donaldson document these real stories of the survivors and bring them to a new audience. It’s powerful and confronting content, but I hope audiences are inspired by the resilience of those who’ve had to live through the last 20 years after these attacks.”
