The zoo will remain closed for the day as a murder investigation continues into the death of a staff member. Photo: National Zoo and Aquarium / Facebook.
A traditional Bhutanese semso or consolation drive has been launched by the Canberra community to support the family of Tshewang Choden, who died on Monday after being stabbed at the National Zoo and Aquarium.
Describing Ms Choden, 29, as “a young vibrant and beloved member of our community”, the Australia Bhutanese Association of Canberra’s (ABAC) Facebook page says the community is feeling “deep sadness” about her death on 18 December.
“The bereaved family along with our community is in deep shock and mourning. As a close-knit community, the Australia Bhutanese Association of Canberra and the entire Bhutanese community across Australia stand united in solidarity with the bereaved family,” the social media post says.
“As a token of our support and solidarity, ABAC would like to initiate a semso (consolation) drive so that we can mobilise funds to support the family during this difficult period.”
Around 6000 Bhutanese people live in the ACT and the community has rallied in the past to provide support after an untimely death and to enable family members to repatriate the deceased. The Bhutanese Embassy is also providing consular support to the victim’s family.
The semso tradition provides community financial support to those in need and is deeply embedded in Bhutanese culture.
ACT Policing is currently conducting a homicide investigation after Ms Choden’s body was found in a kitchen area at the National Zoo & Aquarium. Jude Luckshan Wijesinghe, who also worked at the zoo, has been charged with her murder.
The 29-year-old from Oaks Estate appeared in the ACT Magistrates Court in a bedside hearing on Tuesday (19 December) where he pleaded not guilty to a charge of murder. He did not apply for bail and the matter was adjourned to 4 April 2024.
The zoo has reopened at the request of staff, although Jamala Wildlife Lodge remains closed and zoo staff have been offered trauma counselling.
The semso drive will remain open for two weeks until 5 January 2024. The Australia Bhutan Association Canberra is encouraging community members to contribute any amount possible, adding that full accounts will be shared to ensure transparency.
Donations can be made to the account with the following details:
BSB: 062924
Ac.No: 10190406
Description: semso
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