To those who lost their lives on MH17, you are not forgotten.

By MAMAMIA TEAM.

The news cycle moves fast. One minute we’re talking about Ian Thorpe the next it’s Allison Baden-Clay or Baby Gammy or the situation in Gaza.

But 21 days ago, Australians were left reeling from reports that Malaysian Airlines Flight 17 had been shot down over Ukraine killing all 283 passengers and 15 crew on board.

Today Australia holds a national day of mourning for all those who died – in particular the 38 Australian citizens and residents.

According to ABC News , Prime Minister Abbot will ‘join politicians, dignitaries and families of victims from around the country for a multi-faith service at Melbourne’s St Patrick’s Cathedral this morning.’

“Today is a day of mourning and we will remember the 298 innocent people who died on Flight MH17,” Mr Abbott said ahead of the service.

“We grieve for all of them, but particularly for the 38 who called Australia home.

“Today we will remember them and we will honour them.”

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten along with Dutch and Malaysian ambassadors will also address the service.

The families of victims will be invited to lay floral tributes to pay tribute to their loved ones.

Whatever you are doing today, take some time to send thoughts of love, support and strength to the families who have been left behind; whose hearts are strangled with grief.

And to those who lost their lives on 17th July 2014, you are not forgotten.

This is a video of Katie Noonan singing ‘We are Australian’ at the service.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yX4hnJmGXSY

To leave a message of condolence book for the families of MH17….

In the wake of the horror of MH17, the Australian government wants all of us to know that a condolence book has opened up where we can each leave a message of love and support for all those families who have been personally affected. Copies of these messages will eventually be given to the families.

Sometimes, in your darkest hour when life has brought you to your knees it is the smallest kindness from strangers which keeps you going. Knowing that other people care can get you through the next hour of grief.

Two minutes of your time. The link is here.