While Swimmers Ran From Attack, Widely-Shared Image Captures Lifeguard Sprinting ‘Pedal to the Metal’ Towards the Site.
Alexandra Ching, a permanent inhabitant of Bondi, describes the iconic coast as her back yard. On that particular weekend evening, she, like many others in the area, detected cracking sounds ringing out through the neighbourhood.
“We all thought the same, but I considered it was still too bright and there was nothing visible,” Ching states. Stepping out of her residence, she witnessed people “pouring up Bondi Road”. Their expressions on display made it clear trouble had occurred.
As she stood on the street, speaking to a couple who had rushed up the slope still dripping wet, she became aware of someone moving up at her rear. The person was a rescuer, sprinting in the direction of Bondi without shoes from the nearby Tamarama beach – about 1.5km – while carrying a defibrillator.
“I noticed a person utter ‘excuse me’, and turning my head I spotted this streak in blue,” Ching describes. “He was simply racing by. He was the only one moving in the path that all the others was trying to get away from, and hauling that large equipment and barefoot … He was sprinting into something that surely every part of you would signal you to run in the reverse way.
“Just no hesitation, but just completely maximum effort running.”
A Symbol of Heroism Amidst Tragedy
The photograph that Ching snapped of the lifeguard, now known to be Jackson Doolan, was widely shared as among numerous moments of heroism in the aftermath of the tragic event.
Andy Reid, a second beach safety officer, explained that Doolan, known as “Jacko”, ran from Tamarama beach to assist the remaining crew at Bondi, as well as to help emergency personnel, officers and paramedics caring for many those hurt.
Collective Reaction and Support
Doolan’s actions was part of a broader narrative to emerge from the local area, with the beach facility next to the scene of the incident transforming into a makeshift hospital. It was shared that fellow lifeguards were also seen helping out, such as rushing into the water to assist people who were struggling.
Following the attack, comments of support were shared. One post expressed appreciation for the responders who showed that “kindness will always overcome evil”.
The group of beach patrol published a message, saying they were “still trying to comprehend what happened”.
“Our thanks go out to all for your thoughtful messages and solidarity. We are touched by the kindness for our responders,” the team stated. “When ready, we will recount our experiences in the hope that it aids those affected.”
Official Commendation
Waverley council, the administrative organization that employs many permanent beach safety officers, said that the staff performed exceptionally from the instant the incident started until late that nighttime.
“People have shared so many moving stories, but the viral image of Jackson Doolan, running from Tamarama to Bondi with a AED so he could help save lives is extraordinary,” commented a council representative.
“Our lifeguards demonstrate dedication every day in ensuring our world-famous beaches safe for visitors, but what we witnessed on Sunday should be celebrated.
“During this time of sorrow and process the horror of this heinous terrorist attack, I think it is crucial that we focus on just how much light we have seen in the face of such hatred.”