Australian Red Cross Lifeblood website crashes as Aussies rush to donate blood after Bondi Beach massacre

Heartwarming scenes have emerged from Sydney as dozens of people line city streets to donate blood.

The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood website crashed as Australians rushed to find out how to donate blood following the Bondi massacre.

A Lifeblood spokesman said their website and call centre were experiencing higher volumes than usual following the Sydney terror attack and urged people to check back later if they had trouble connecting.

Lifeblood has issued a push for O negative blood and were experiencing a high demand after scores of people were injured in the massacre.

Survivors were rushed to hospitals across Sydney following the attack, which killed 15 innocent victims and one offender.

Blood has been transferred from multiple states across Australia to support the need in Sydney, with Lifeblood sounding the alarm it could take up to 100 donations to save one life.

People have been urged to make an appointment to donate blood in the coming days and weeks, particularly donations for O Type.

A Lifeblood spokesman said they had seen an overwhelming response from the community but the need for more blood was ongoing.

“Firstly, our thoughts are with the injured, their families and those who have lost loved ones because of this horrific tragedy,” a Lifeblood spokesman said.

“When tragic events occur, donating blood is one way to help people.

“In the event of a serious trauma event or emergency, up to 100 blood donations may be needed to save just one life.

“With the festive season approaching, we’re encouraging people to look at making an appointment over the coming weeks, as blood donations will continue to be needed between now and January 2.

“We’d also encourage people to book an appointment where possible, to ensure you’re not waiting too long to donate.”

Premier Chris Minns told media hospitals needed blood and urged anyone who thought about doing an act of public service following the shooting to contact the Red Cross.

“We saw extraordinary scenes from New South Wales public hospitals last night, emergency departments at the drop of a hat were in the process of saving scores of lives,” he said.

“They 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.”

NSW Police and the Australian Red Cross also urged people to register they are safe on their Register, Find, Reunite website so family, friends and loved ones know they are okay after an emergency situation.

A police spokesman said the service helps people find someone who may be affected by an emergency and reunites them through a matching service, and allows police to share details of family and friends with each other, with consent.