A humanitarian aid worker who was tragically killed in Northern Gaza, Lalzawmi “Zomi” Frankcom, has been remembered as a “selfless hero” in a ceremony at Canterbury today.

Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Bilal El-Hayek was joined by Zomi’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 much needed food and other supplies to the Palestinian people.

Zomi was a caring humanitarian, joining World Central Kitchen to provide aid to people in need around the globe. 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 today 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.”

The plaque and memorial tree in honour of Lalzawmi Zomi Frankcom can be found at Leslie Muir Reserve, Canterbury.

To learn more about Council’s memorial tree program, visit cb.city/MemorialTrees