A humanitarian aid worker who was tragically killed in Northern Gaza earlier this year has been remembered as a selfless hero at a ceremony in Canterbury this week.
City of Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor, Bilal El-Hayek, was joined by Lalzawmi ‘Zomi’ Frankcom’s family and friends to unveil a memorial tree and plaque at the park near where she lived most of her life.
The 43-year-old, known by most as Zomi, was killed along with six colleagues, as they delivered food and other supplies to Palestinians in April.
“Zomi was a caring humanitarian, joining World Central Kitchen to provide aid to people in need around the globe,” the Council said in a statement.
Her work in Gaza followed visits to communities hit by flooding in Pakistan and Bangladesh, caring for Ukrainian refugees in Romania, and residents in Haiti, and helping the victims of the devastation caused by an earthquake in Turkey and Syria.
In a heartfelt speech, Mayor El-Hayek said Zomi was an extraordinary person who dedicated her life to giving comfort and support to those in need.
“Her death, along with six colleagues, should, and must never be forgotten,” Mayor El-Hayek said.
“It’s a stark reminder of the many people in our community that are selfless heroes that through their voluntary deeds and acts of dedication go unnoticed.
“I am indeed proud and honoured to etch Zomi’s name in our city’s history – her sacrifice and name will never be forgotten.”
Zomi’s brother, Mal Frankcom, said the heartache, pain and anger of losing his sister under the circumstances have been profound.
“The grief of losing my sister will accompany me for a lifetime, but at the same time, it’s important to embrace that grief with an open heart and mind,” Mr Frankcom said.
“In the last few months, I’ve discovered a heart-warming trail of things that Zomi left behind, a trail of inspiration, love and compassion all around the world.
“Zomi really left an indelible mark on those lives and I hope she can inspire others to leave their positive mark on the world.”
Also attending the ceremony, Zomi’s cousin, Georgie Brewer, said the tree planted will serve as a tangible memory of the mark Zomi left on the lives of all she met.
“The roots of Zomi’s life are here, and the beauty of the tree is that it will be here for years to come, offering protection, beauty, colour and grace, just as Zomi did in life,” Ms Brewer said.
“I have many happy memories of times here with Zomi – hosting Christmas on Mum’s balcony overlooking the river, listening to Zomi string softly away to her favourite songs on the guitar, and playing games of backyard cricket in this very park.
“These are the memories I will cherish, and that this memorial will help preserve.”
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong, said the tributes flowing for Lalzawmi ‘Zomi’ Frankcom tell the story of a life dedicated to the service of others, including her fellow Australians during natural disasters.
“Her tireless work to improve the lives of others should never have cost Ms Frankcom her own,” said Senator Wong.
The plaque and memorial tree in honour of Lalzawmi Zomi Frankcom can be found at Leslie Muir Reserve in Canterbury.
