A major security scare unfolded at Bonnyrigg High School in western Sydney on 25 June 2025, when a bomb threat triggered a full lockdown and a large-scale police response. The incident caused widespread concern among parents and the local community. But were the threats real, or was it all a hoax?
Bomb Threat Prompts Emergency Lockdown at Bonnyrigg High School
At approximately 11:15 am, Bonnyrigg High School received an alarming email containing a bomb threat. School officials immediately activated emergency protocols, placing the school under lockdown and evacuating students and staff to safe zones outside the buildings.
Hundreds of students were evacuated from the school grounds, as reported by Sky News, while specialist police units and fire crews conducted a full sweep of the area.
Police Search Reveals No Immediate Danger
Following the evacuation, a comprehensive search of the school grounds was conducted, covering classrooms, corridors, and outdoor areas. The police dog unit was observed entering the premises shortly after the site was cleared. The PolAir helicopter also provided aerial surveillance throughout the operation.
By around 12:50 pm, authorities confirmed that no explosive devices or harmful materials had been found. Although the threat was taken seriously, it was ultimately determined to be non-credible. The lockdown was lifted shortly afterwards, and all students and staff were confirmed safe.
Was the Bonnyrigg High School Bomb Threat Real?
Despite the extensive emergency response, the threat is now believed to have been a hoax. NSW Police have not disclosed the full contents of the email but described it as 'unspecified' and suspicious. The origin of the message remains under investigation.
According to an ABC News report, hoax threats delivered via email are increasingly common in Australia. While the majority are eventually revealed to be false, schools are required to treat every threat as potentially credible to safeguard everyone on site.
Parents, Students React to Lockdown
As the lockdown unfolded, social media platforms filled with reactions from concerned parents and students.
In a local Facebook group, one user posted, 'Hope they are all safe and okay,' while another wrote, 'Omg I hope all the students and staff will be safe. So scary if your children attend there.' Some even added light-hearted remarks such as, 'Someone forgot to do their homework...'
A parent later shared, 'I was terrified not knowing what was happening, but I'm so grateful the school acted fast.'
Meanwhile, students posted photos and videos from the evacuation zones, offering a real-time glimpse into the unfolding situation. These posts provided insight into how the incident was experienced on the ground and were widely shared across social platforms.
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Review
Bonnyrigg High School resumed normal operations later that day. While no immediate threat was found, police investigations into the source of the email are still ongoing. Officials have reiterated the importance of treating all potential risks seriously.
The school is expected to review its emergency protocols in collaboration with the NSW Department of Education. Authorities praised the calm and coordinated response by staff and emergency services, noting that such preparedness is essential in ensuring student safety.
Education officials continue to stress the importance of robust emergency planning and effective communication strategies between schools, parents, and first responders during such incidents.
