Australians are being urged to donate blood after a mass shooting terror attack in Bondi claimed 16 lives, including one of the two gunmen.
Over 40 people were hospitalised following the attack, including two police officers and a bystander, identified as Ahmed al Ahmed who tackled and disarmed one of the gunmen. Their conditions are currently serious. The second gunman, a 24-year-old, is also is hospital under police guard. NSW Premier Chris Minns said he is likely to survive.
As emergency services continue to treat victims, authorities are urging those who can to donate blood and offer support to the affected communities.
Minns praised frontline healthcare workers, referencing “extraordinary scenes” in hospitals overnight. “[Healthcare workers] did an incredible job, but they need your help. They need blood, and if you’re thinking about doing an act of public service in the coming 24 hours, I urge you to contact the Red Cross and do that piece of public-mindedness,” Minns said.
The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood confirmed it issued several life-threatening orders for blood products following the attack and has begun transferring supplies from other states to meet demand. A spokesperson said the need is ongoing, particularly for O-negative donors, whose blood can be used in any emergency case.
“Fewer than seven percent of the population are O-negative, making it a challenge,” Lifeblood said. “In the event of a serious trauma or emergency, up to 100 blood donations may be needed to save just one life.”
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Cath Stone, Executive Director of Donor Experience at Lifeblood, said donating blood is one of the most practical ways Australians can help right now. “When tragic events occur, donating blood is a good way to help people,” she said. “To donate blood or plasma, visit lifeblood.com.au, call 13 14 95 or download the Lifeblood app.”
Across Sydney, hospitals continue to operate at a trauma level, and queues have formed outside donor centres. Blood from interstate is also being sent to New South Wales to meet urgent demand. Local and faith leaders have urged Australians to stand with Sydney’s Jewish community and others directly affected. Organisations including Lifeline Bondi, Headspace Bondi Junction and The Junction Neighbourhood Centre are offering free mental health and counselling support.
Where to donate
Major Lifeblood centres in Sydney include Town Hall, York Street and Parramatta, with extended hours this week. Temporary collection sites have also opened in Bondi Junction and Coogee. Appointments can be made at lifeblood.com.au through the Lifeblood app, or by calling 13 14 95.
If you need help
If you are struggling with your mental health in the wake of the attack, help is available 24/7. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14, NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 or the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.
