While the exact number of flowers is unknown, it is being reported that there were nearly 100 bouquets per square metre, meaning that over 100,000 bouquets were probably left.
The move to clear the flowers comes ahead of wild weather that has been forecast to hit the city later today.
The flowers taken from Martin Place will reportedly be mulched and eventually moved to a permanent memorial site.
Notes, messages and cards will be also preserved to arrange at the new site.
More than 100,000 bouquets may have been placed at Martin Place.
More than 100,000 bouquets may have been placed at Martin Place.
More than 100,000 bouquets may have been placed at Martin Place.
Volunteers came from the Rural Fire Service, Red Cross and State Emergency Services to carry out the job. Even the NSW Premier, Mike Baird, helped pack flowers into boxes.
NSW Premier @mikebairdMP helps out as flowers are packed away outside the Lindt Cafe. pic.twitter.com/RRXHQiYp66 (@dan_murphy)
The Premier posted a message on Facebook about the decision.
“Following consultation with the families of Tori Johnson and Katrina Dawson, removal of the floral tribute in Martin Place will begin from tomorrow afternoon ahead of forecast wet weather.
“This will allow for all notes, messages and cards to be preserved.
“Flowers will be clean mulched for future use at a site to be determined in consultation with the families. At an appropriate time we’ll also discuss with them the establishment of a permanent memorial.
“An online condolence book can still be signed at http://tribute.dpc.nsw.gov.au/remembering-the-victims-of-the-lindt-cafe-siege/
“Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the floral memorial. The memory of this spontaneous outpouring of love will live with me forever as a powerful reminder of the heart that beats strong in this great City.”
