Bondi Beach closed after sharks spotted circling bait ball

Swimmers and surfers were ejected from the water at one of Australia’s most famous beaches until the danger passed.

Swimmers and surfers were forced out of the water of Australia’s most famous beach on Friday after sharks were spotted circling nearby.

The sharks were seen swimming through the large school of fish.

A Channel 9 news helicopter spotted the apex predators about 9.30am.

Video footage showed several sharks swimming through a large bait ball that had gathered not far from surfers.

The bait ball extended for several metres.

A stingray could also be seen.

A Waverley Council spokeswoman said lifeguards sounded the alarm and sent a jet ski into the surf.

It’s unclear what type of sharks were in the water.

The beach was closed for about an hour before it was deemed safe for people to go back into the water.