What was supposed to be a routine weekend surf turned into tragedy on Saturday when a local man was killed in a shark attack at one of Sydney’s most popular northern beaches.
The rare fatal incident has left the community shaken and prompted authorities to close several beaches in the area.
Experienced Surfer Caught in Rare Fatal Attack
The victim, a 57-year-old father and seasoned surfer, had been out on the waves with a group of friends when the attack occurred between Long Reef and Dee Why beaches.
Police confirmed that his surfboard was split in half during the encounter and that he sustained catastrophic injuries.
Superintendent John Duncan from New South Wales Police said the man lost several limbs and bled heavily before rescuers could get him back to shore.
Despite desperate attempts to save him, the efforts proved unsuccessful.
Witnesses Describe the Devastating Scene
According to police, both the surfer and his board initially disappeared under the water. His body was later found floating in the surf.
Fellow surfers in the water were the first to reach him and bring him to shore, but by then it was too late.
One witness told local media that several surfers helped pull the man from the water, and it was clear his lower body had been badly mauled.
Another described lifeguards waving a red flag to warn swimmers and surfers to get out of the water immediately.
Shark Patrols and Beach Closures
Authorities believe a “large shark” was behind the attack, though the exact species has not yet been confirmed.
Experts are now examining the man’s injuries and his damaged surfboard to determine whether it was a great white, bull shark, or tiger shark—all species known to be responsible for most serious attacks in Australia.
Surf Life Saving NSW has closed beaches between Manly and Narrabeen for at least 24 hours, cancelling all weekend water activities and training. Drones and lifesavers on jet skis have been deployed to monitor the coastline for further shark activity.
First Fatal Shark Attack in Sydney Since 2022
This marks the first deadly shark attack in Sydney since 2022, when British diving instructor Simon Nellist was killed off Little Bay.
Before that, the city hadn’t recorded a fatal incident since 1963.
Across Australia, shark attacks are rare but not unheard of.
A national database records more than 1,280 shark-related incidents since 1791, with just over 250 resulting in death.
A Tragedy Felt Across the Surfing Community
Surf Life Saving NSW chief executive Steven Pearce extended condolences to the victim’s family, urging beachgoers to remain cautious and follow lifeguards’ instructions.
The surfing community has been left devastated, not only by the sudden loss of one of their own but also by the reminder of the risks that come with their beloved sport.