"Devastated" Cummins leads tributes to the victims of Bondi terror attack

Cricket Australia have led tributes to the victims and families caught up in the Bondi Beach terror attack.

Two gunmen opened fire on a Jewish Hanukkah event at the iconic Sydney landmark on Sunday evening, with the latest death toll confirmed by police to have reached 16, including a young child.

"Everyone at the Australia and the England and Wales Cricket Board is horrified by the tragic events at Bondi beach yesterday," a joint statement from both governing bodies said.

"All of our thoughts are with the victims, their friends and families, the Jewish Community and the people of Australia at this deeply distressing time.

"Our condolences go out to all those affected.

"We stand with you."

The ECB account commented on the post with: "We stand together".

Australia captain Pat Cummins made a social media plea for donations.

“Absolutely devastated by the horror last night in Bondi. My heart goes out to the victims, their families, the people of Bondi and our Jewish community during this time,” he wrote.

“If you can, please book an appointment to donate blood.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the events at Bondi as “evil anti-Semitism” and “an attack on our way of life”.

“There is no place for this hate violence and terrorism in our nation,” he said. “Let me be clear, we will eradicate it.”

England legend Michael Vaughan was in Bondi at the time of the shooting and was locked inside a restaurant as the horror unfolded.

Tweeting in the aftermath Vaughan said: "Being locked in a restaurant in Bondi was scary .. Now home safe .. but thanks so much to the emergency services and the guy who confronted the terrorist .. thoughts with all who have been affected."

Vaughan later spoke to British media saying he had initially thought the emergency response was for a shark attack.

"I was outside on the phone until about 6:51 then all of a sudden police cars were flying by, I presumed it was a shark attack... I didn't expect what I found out a few minutes later.

"A security guard said there was someone with a gun. We all got told to stay inside the pub. News came there had been an attack on the beach and then the news was it was a terror attack.

"They shut the doors and locked the people inside."

The AFL shared its condolences and thank the emergency responders.

"Our hearts are with all those affected by the tragic events in Bondi yesterday.

"On behalf of the AFL, we extend our deepest condolences to the victims of this targeted attack and their loved ones.

"This is a time to come together to grieve, to support one another, and to stand with our Jewish colleagues and friends.

"Every person in our country has the right to celebrate their faith in peace and safety, including our Jewish community.

"We also acknowledge the first responders and the brave civilians who stepped towards danger to protect others.

December is a time when, as a community, we traditionally come together to reflect and be thankful for our family and friends. In moments like this, it is more important than ever that we look after each other."

Also extending its condolences was the Australian Olympic Committee.

"The Australian Olympic Committee wraps its arms around the jewish Community after yesterday's devastating incident at Bondi Beach. We stand united with you in your grief and anguish.

"Condolences, love and support to all those affected, including family, friends, loved ones and of course the first responders."

The Sydney Swans wrote: "We are thinking of everyone affected by the Bondi tragedy this evening,” AFL club the Sydney Swans posted on social media on Sunday night.

“Bondi is part of our community and we are deeply saddened by these events. We are sending condolences to all and our thoughts and thanks are also with NSW emergency service personnel.”

The Roosters said: "The Sydney Roosters are deeply saddened by the tragic events that unfolded at Bondi Beach yesterday.

"Bondi Beach is an iconic place for our city and our community, and this targeted attack on the first night of Chanukah is devastating.

"Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, the Jewish community and everyone affected.

"We extend our sincere gratitude to the first responders and emergency service personnel whose bravery, professionalism, and swift action made a critical difference under extraordinarily challenging circumstances.

"No community in this country should live in fear.

As the news reached all corners of the world, Manchester United paid tribute.

"The festival of Chanukah would usually be a moment of celebration and light for our Jewish fans and their communities around the world.

"After today’s appalling terrorist attack in Sydney, it has become a far more sombre occasion.

"Our thoughts are with those immediately affected in Sydney. We stand with them, as we do with the Jewish community in Manchester, following the events at Heaton Park Synagogue earlier this year, and those around the world who are marking Chanukah."

As Australia prepares to take England on in the third Ashes Test, Usman Khawaja posted to his followers.

"Up before the break of dawn and praying for the Jewish community as a whole," he wrote on Instagram. "No room whatsoever for these hate crimes.

"Truly devastating news from Bondi. Lives lost senselessly, families shattered, the Bondi community traumatised. There are no words. My thoughts and prayers to all affected."

England's Barmy Army also shared in their grief.

"We are deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic events at Bondi Beach," a statement said. "Our thoughts are with the victims, their families and everyone affected by this horrific incident.

"Bondi holds special memories for many England supporters who have visited over the years. To see such violence in a place known for joy is heart-breaking.

"We stand in solidarity with the people of Australia at this incredibly difficult time."

Help is available:

NSW Mental Health Line:

Call 1800 011 511

Lifeline:

Call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14

Kids Helpline

Call 1800 55 1800

Beyond Blue Call 1300 22 4636