The Bombing That Changed My Life

Tuesday, 2nd of June, 1942

Dear Mum and Dad,

It's alright. We are safe

If you haven't already heard Sydney was attacked by the Japanese submarines on the 31st of May 1942. We had just got back from visiting the harbour bridge and it was amazing, the kids loved it. After we got back James went out to the movie rental shop and rented some movies. Luckily he made it safe and sound. We were all excited to see what movies James had brought back. April in her pjs with jer beautiful blue eyes staring at James as he brought the movies in the lounge room. James and I got April, Noah and Teah settled down ready to watch the movie. The movie started and the kids eyes were glaring at the tv so I went outside onto the balcony. James followed me. The both of us were looking at the beautiful ocean and all we could smell was the ocean. I remember saying to myself this is paradise. As we walked back into the lounge room the kids all turned to us and smiled. About 10 minutes after there was a big explosion. Then another and another. I wasn't too concerned because I thought they were fireworks. I went outside to see the fireworks but there wasn't any. I then heard people screaming and yelling "We've been bombed"!! I went straight inside and locked the door that was leading out to the balcony. I yelled to James and the kids saying "we're being attacked, grab everything, stay calm and say together". I opened the balcony door and went to see if anything else had happened. All I could hear was explosions again and again, and people screaming, crying and yelling things out. I could smell really weird things. I had smelt smoke and asj everywhere I went. Then I could smell a tinge of blood and and then the beautiful ocean which was now destroyed. I looked over the balcony and saw blood, which meant people were injured or had been killed. Then I could see black smoke everywhere and even a litte bit of a spark. I knew this wasn't good. There were people running around everywhere madly trying to help the people who were injured and the people who were lost or going to get injured. This was a disaster. I ran back inside and shut the door. I told the kids we were going to be fine but I knew really we weren't. All I can remember was April, Noah and Teah holding mine and James' hand as tight as they could and then saying "I don't want to die". I felt terroisted by the Japanese people. I never wanted to hear those words come out of childrens' mouth again. I also felt fear that I wasn't going to make it. Can you imagine how hard it would be for the kids and James and then you guys, it would be very hard. I don't know if they would cope. This was the mosy terrifying experience of my life and I never want to experience it again. This is a memory that will always stay in my heart and in my mind. But you don't have to worry, it's alright. We are safe.

Yours sincerely Gabby and the family xo