A dramatic shooting unfolded this evening on a bustling beach as two gunmen unleashed a barrage of bullets from a footbridge at Campbell Parade’s southern end, shortly before 7 p.m. (AEDT).

The attack resulted in numerous casualties, with reports confirming that 10 people have tragically lost their lives, including one of the assailants.

The second gunman is in critical condition and has been apprehended by authorities.

Police have issued a warning regarding the potential presence of explosives on the bridge used by the attackers. A thorough search is underway for any live bombs.

The chaos left dozens of individuals injured, including two police officers and several young children. At least 25 people have been transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.

“I witnessed children and an elderly woman among the victims,” reported 9News correspondent Damien Ryan from the scene.

“Families there, little children wounded, blood all over them.”

Two police officers have also been shot in what is Australia’s worst mass shooting since the Port Arthur massacre in 1996.

The sheer number of injuries has meant the wounded have been taken to hospitals all over Sydney, from nearby Prince of Wales and St Vincent’s to Westmead in the city’s west and St George in the south.

The shooting came at the same time as a Jewish event was being held at the beach, on the first day of Hanukkah.

Footage from the scene showed hundreds, if not thousands, of beachgoers fleeing Bondi as gunshots rang out.

The man then turned the weapon on the attacker, holding it at him as the man stumbled backwards, holding up his hand as he scrambled away.

The heroic man did not fire the gun but signalled for assistance.

Police issued an alert just before 7pm, urging the public to avoid the area due to the “developing incident”.

“Anyone at the scene should take shelter,” NSW Police said.

“Police are on scene and more information will be provided when it comes to hand.”

The prime minister has been briefed by federal police on the incident, and a meeting of the National Security Committee has been called.

“The scenes in Bondi are shocking and distressing. Police and emergency responders are on the ground working to save lives. My thoughts are with every person affected,” Anthony Albanese said.

“I have just spoken to the AFP commissioner and with the NSW premier. We are working with the NSW Police and will provide further updates as more information is confirmed.”

NSW Premier Chris Minns urged the public to follow the advice from authorities.

“The reports and images coming out of Bondi tonight are deeply distressing,” he said.

Police and emergency services are responding and the public should follow official advice.

“We will update the public as soon as more information becomes available.”