In the wake of the Bondi Junction terrorist attack, police officers from Newcastle have answered a critical call to action, not with sirens and handcuffs, but by rolling up their sleeves to donate blood. Their efforts are part of an extraordinary national response that has seen Australians break donation records to support victims of the December 14 tragedy.
A Community Response in a Time of Crisis
The terrorist attack at Bondi on December 14, 2025, which left 15 people dead and dozens more injured, triggered an immediate and urgent need for blood supplies. Two police officers were among those rushed to hospital with severe gunshot wounds. In response, the Red Cross Lifeblood donor centre in Broadmeadow put out a call for donors, which was met with a massive wave of support.
On Wednesday, December 17, officers from the Newcastle police command visited the busy centre to donate blood and plasma. Northern Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Waddell, joined inspectors Wayne Ashworth and Denni Mannile, and Sergeant Michelle Lawson in giving blood during breaks and between shifts.
"As first responders, we know how critical donated blood can be," Assistant Commissioner Waddell said. "It might feel like a small act, but donating blood can mean the difference between life and death for someone who needs it." He emphasised that this was a tangible way for officers to support the community in a moment of profound need.
National Records Shattered by Public Generosity
The public response to Lifeblood's appeal has been historic. Assistant Commissioner Waddell revealed that the Australian community had significantly exceeded national donation records in the days following the attack.
Within the first 48 hours, more than 70,000 appointments were booked and over 17,000 donations of blood were made across the country. This incredible surge in donations will help countless Australians, including trauma victims, transplant patients, and people living with cancer or immune conditions.
Lifeblood has urged people to continue making appointments in the coming weeks, as the demand for blood and plasma is expected to remain high through the holiday period and into January.
Bleed4Blue: A Lifesaving Legacy Within the Force
The Newcastle officers' donations also contribute to the police force's own annual Bleed4Blue drive, which runs from December to February. This campaign was launched after Detective Sergeant John Breda was stabbed during a police operation in Maroubra in January 2018 and required more than 100 bags of blood to survive.
Police forces across Australia now compete to make the most donations during the campaign. Since December 1, NSW Police officers have made 387 donations, potentially saving up to 1,161 lives.
Assistant Commissioner Waddell said Hunter police were proud to be part of both the national effort and their internal Bleed4Blue initiative. "The response to Lifeblood's call after Bondi has shown the very best of our community," he said, praising the thousands of Australians who stepped forward.
To donate blood or plasma, members of the public can visit lifeblood.com.au, call 13 14 95, or download the Lifeblood app to book an appointment.
