When Beachgoers Fled Attack, Popular Picture Depicts Rescuer Running ‘Full Speed’ In the Direction of the Location.

Alexandra Ching, a lifelong resident of Bondi, views the iconic coast as her personal space. On a recent weekend evening, she, like many neighbors, detected loud noises echoing around the community.

“That was the initial assumption, but I considered it was daylight and you couldn't spot any lights,” she explains. Exiting her apartment, she saw people “streaming up Bondi Road”. The looks on display signaled a crisis was unfolding.

As she stood on the avenue, talking to a couple who had rushed up the slope still dripping wet, she heard someone moving up at her rear. It was a beach patrol officer, running at full speed to Bondi barefoot from the adjacent Tamarama beach – roughly 1.5km – while holding a defibrillator.

“I heard someone say ‘excuse me’, and when I spun around I only caught a glimpse of this streak in blue,” Ching describes. “He was simply racing by. He was the only one running in the direction that everyone was trying to flee, while holding that large equipment and without footwear … He moved into something that certainly every part of you would signal you to go in the opposite direction.

“Absolutely no pause, but just fully maximum effort running.”

A Symbol of Heroism Amidst Chaos

The photo taken by Ching of the lifeguard, now known to be Jackson Doolan, was widely shared as among numerous instances of heroism in the aftermath of the tragic event.

Andy Reid, a second beach safety officer, says that Doolan, referred to as “Jacko”, ran from Tamarama beach to back up the other members at Bondi, as well as to aid other rescuers, officers and paramedics caring for numerous victims.

Community Outpouring and Assistance

Doolan’s actions was just one of many to be shared by the neighbourhood, with the lifeguard clubhouse next to the site of the incident transforming into a temporary hospital. Reports indicate that fellow lifeguards were also seen taking action, such as rushing into the water to rescue people in distress.

After the tragedy, statements of support were shared. One post shared thanks for the individuals who showed that “goodness will always triumph over hatred”.

The team of beach patrol published a communication, explaining they were “coming to terms with what happened”.

“Our thanks go out to all for your kind sentiments and encouragement. We are overwhelmed by the compassion directed at our responders,” the group commented. “Eventually, we will recount our experiences in the hope that it aids those involved.”

Local Government Recognition

Waverley council, the local authority that oversees many full-time beach safety officers, remarked that the crew acted heroically from the second the incident began until late that nighttime.

“We have heard so many emotional stories, but the popular photo of Jackson Doolan, running from Tamarama to Bondi with a defibrillator so he could help preserve life is incredible,” said a council representative.

“The team exhibit selflessness every day in maintaining the safety of our internationally renowned shores protected for the public, but what we witnessed on that evening should be highly praised.

“While we mourn and process the atrocity of this violent and horrific tragedy, I think it is important that we reflect on just how much good we have witnessed in the presence of such hatred.”