Editorial: Time has not healed wounds left by 2002 Bali bombings

Twenty years on, the wounds left by the Bali bombings are still incredibly raw.

On the night of October 12, 2002, two bombs ripped through the Sari Club in Kuta and nearby Paddy’s Bar, killing 202 people including 88 Australians and injuring many more.

It left Kuta a war zone of twisted rubble. It tore families apart and destroyed lives.

Survivors still bear the physical scars from that devastating night. And both they and those who worked to save them — the medical and military personnel who helped in their evacuation and recovery — will never be free from the mental anguish.

In today’s The West Australian, we bring you the stories of two of people whose lives were forever altered by that terror attack orchestrated by Jemaah Islamiyah.

The image of Peter Hughes, his face and body swollen almost beyond recognition, was one of the most striking to be beamed into Australian living rooms in the desperate hours after the attack.

With burns to 50 per cent of his body, his selfless response to a question about how he was going — that others were far worse off — is seared into people’s memories. While his physical rehabilitation was gruelling, the mental recovery was harder.

Mr Hughes details his struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.

On the other side of the ledger was now Rockingham Deputy Mayor Hayley Edwards. Then a 21-year-old RAAF medic, she was flown to Indonesia in the immediate aftermath to help get survivors home safely as part of Operation Bali Assist.

In an opinion piece, she tells how the experience altered the course of her life forever.

Telling these stories and remembering those we lost is of vital importance.

In a special five-part video series, The West Australian’s Bali Bombings: My Story will bring you the reflections of five West Australians caught up in the chaos that October night. Harrowing and deeply personal, these are stories of everyday people who showed extraordinary courage.

The first installment, featuring Mr Hughes, is available to watch now online.

Responsibility for the editorial comment is taken by WAN Editor-in-Chief Anthony De Ceglie