While Sunbathers Ran From Violence, Viral Photo Shows Beach Patrol Dashing ‘Full Speed’ To the Site.

Alexandra Ching, a permanent inhabitant of Bondi, has always considered the iconic shoreline as her back yard. On that particular weekend night, she, along with numerous local residents, noticed cracking sounds reverberating through the community.

“We all thought the same, but I considered it was too light and you couldn't spot any lights,” Ching recounts. Exiting her apartment, she witnessed people “flooding up Bondi Road”. Their expressions on display made it clear trouble had occurred.

As she stood on the street, conversing with a duo who had run up the hill in their swimwear, she became aware of someone coming up behind her. It was a rescuer, dashing to Bondi barefoot from the neighbouring Tamarama beach – about 1.5km – while transporting a life-saving kit.

“I caught a voice saying ‘excuse me’, and turning my head I just saw this blur of blue,” she recounts. “He was zooming past. He was the only one running in the opposite way that the crowd was trying to get away from, and hauling that large equipment and unshod … He’s running into something that undoubtedly every part of you would instruct you to move in the reverse way.

“Just no hesitation, but just totally maximum effort racing.”

A Powerful Moment of Heroism In the Wake of Tragedy

The photo taken by Ching of the lifeguard, now known to be Jackson Doolan, was widely shared as one of many acts of heroism in the wake of the terror attack.

Andy Reid, a fellow lifeguard, says that Doolan, called “Jacko”, hurried from Tamarama beach to back up the other members at Bondi, as well as to aid surf lifesavers, law enforcement and ambulance crews attending to dozens of those hurt.

Community Reaction and Solidarity

Doolan’s account was a single example among several to emerge from the local area, with the lifeguard clubhouse beside the scene of the attack becoming a temporary medical station. Reports indicate that fellow lifeguards were also seen taking action, including rushing into the water to assist people needing help.

After the events, messages of gratitude circulated widely. One post conveyed appreciation for the individuals who exhibited that “compassion will always conquer darkness”.

The team of beach patrol published a statement, saying they were “still trying to comprehend what transpired”.

“Our thanks go out to all for your kind messages and solidarity. We are overwhelmed by the kindness for our team,” the team stated. “In time, we will tell our tales in the belief that it aids those affected.”

Official Recognition

Waverley council, the governing body that oversees many full-time beach safety officers, said that the crew acted heroically from the second the violence began through to late that night.

“There have been so many emotional stories, but the widely-circulated picture of Jackson Doolan, racing from Tamarama to Bondi with a AED so he could help assist the injured is remarkable,” commented a mayor.

“These individuals exhibit dedication every day in ensuring our internationally renowned beaches protected for the public, but what we saw on that day should be commended.

“During this time of sorrow and grapple with the terror of this heinous terrorist attack, I think it is crucial that we consider just how much good we have seen in the presence of such darkness.”