A TV star has been hailed a hero after selflessly rushing to the scene of the Bondi terrorist attack in a bid to help first responders and save innocent lives.

Bondi Rescue star Jackson Doolan has been inundated with praise after he rushed to help emergency services on the front line of the Bondi Beach terror attack on Sunday evening.

At the time of writing, 16 people have died, and 27 people people remain in hospital after two armed terrorists opened fire at a Hanukkah festival on the world-famous beach.

The gunmen have been confirmed as a father and son, aged 50 and 24. The 50-year-old died at the scene, and the 24-year-old is currently in hospital in a critical condition.

Minutes into the horrifying incident unfolding, Doolan raced to the beach in a desperate bid to save lives.

In a photograph shared on Instagram, a barefoot Doolan is seen sprinting down the road wearing his lifeguard uniform and carrying medical equipment.

Doolan’s Bondi Rescue co-star, Andy Reid, wrote alongside the photo: “7pm yesterday in Bondi – Lifeguard: Jacko @jacksondoolan running over from Tamarama with medical equipment to back up Lifeguards, Clubbies, Police, Ambos and other everyday heroes who tried to save people during yesterday’s horrific attack.

“I can’t even begin to imagine what you all had to witness and deal with, but you are all the most incredible people.

“I’m grateful we live in a world where you exist to show that kindness will always conquer evil. Thank you.”

 

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Fans were amazed by Doolan’s incredible act and rushed to the comments to praise his valiant efforts.

“Heartbreaking, but also incredible to witness what our first responders do in situations like this. When most would understandably hear gunshots and run the other way, they run towards them,” one person said.

“Bless him. Didn’t even stop to put his shoes on. There are some beautiful people in the world,” another added.

“This is a haunting image. I’m so very sorry to the victims and their families, but so very grateful to the gentleman who stepped in so heroically, and also to ALL of the first responders,” wrote a third.

“How incredibly brave and selfless. It is heartbreaking witnessing these innocent lives be taken but I am nothing short of proud to come from a nation that selflessly helps in dangerous times like this,” a fourth person commented.

Following the terrifying terrorist attack, Doolan took to his own Instagram page to confirm he had safely made it back home.

“Appreciate all the messages. I’m safe and all of the lifeguards are safe. Speechless. Well done to everyone involved in helping out,” he penned in an Instagram Story.

He also shared a video of one of his brave colleagues who rushed into the sea to save some tourists while gunfire was erupting behind them.

The lifeguard, named Rory Davey, could be seen charging into the water on his surfboard so that he could rescue two swimmers in danger.

“With shots still being fired – my colleague [Rory Davey] charging in to rescue and save two people’s lives,” Doolan wrote.

Bondi Rescue star Jackson Doolan (left) has been praised for his heroic efforts. (Picture: Instagram)

In a statement shared on Sunday night, Bondi Lifeguards confirmed that all lifesavers were safe following the mass shooting.

“Our team did an incredible job as first responders doing what they could. Our love is going to those affected,” the statement added.

Bondi Beach and the surrounding areas have been closed until further notice as clean-up efforts continue. There is also a large police presence at the scene.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that the government is providing support for the funerals of the victims, including helping relatives who will need to fly from overseas.

Victims of the massacre include a 10-year-old girl, a Holocaust survivor, a British-born rabbi, and a young French explorer.

Speaking at a press conference, Albanese said the shooting at Bondi Beach was “an act of pure evil, an act of terror and an act of antisemitism”.