Wave of Shark Attacks Hits New South Wales Coast

Tue Jan 20 2026 23:29:16 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a shocking turn of events, New South Wales experiences its fourth shark attack in just 48 hours, raising concerns among surfers and coastal residents.

A surfer was injured in the fourth shark attack in New South Wales within two days, prompting authorities to close several beaches. The recent spate of attacks has been attributed to increased shark activity following heavy rains, leading to murkier waters that can attract sharks.

A surfer has been bitten by a shark, marking the fourth reported attack along the New South Wales (NSW) coastline in less than 48 hours. The incident involved a 39-year-old man who sustained a significant wound to his chest after a shark bit his surfboard while he was surfing on the Mid North Coast on Tuesday morning. Fortunately, he has since been released from the hospital.

This incident follows three shark attacks reported in Sydney over the previous two days. As a precautionary measure, police have announced that all beaches in Sydney's northern area will remain closed until further notice.

Authorities are investigating the causes behind these recent attacks, which occur shortly after prolonged heavy rainfalls. NSW Superintendent Joseph McNulty has noted that the rain has likely created a perfect storm environment for shark sightings, as the influx of nutrients into the water can lure sharks closer to shore.

The latest attack unfolded near the Point Plomer campground, located approximately 450km (279 miles) north of Sydney. Steve Pearce, the chief executive of Surf Life Saving NSW, stated that the surfer was fortunate not to have suffered severe injuries.

In light of these incidents, Pearce emphasized the need for caution among beachgoers, advising against swimming or surfing near river mouths, where shark activity is often higher. This warning resonates particularly now, as contaminated water from rain decreases visibility and safety.

Previously, incidents at Sydney's Dee Why Beach and nearby Manly Beach resulted in two young surfers encountering dangerous interactions with sharks, with one individual suffering serious injuries. The series of attacks, involving what authorities believe to be primarily bull sharks, raises alarm as they are recognized for being potentially dangerous to humans.

Despite the heightened fears, experts stress that while such shark attacks are concerning, the likelihood of an individual being attacked remains minimal. The situation is being monitored, with public safety being a top priority amid these remarkable occurrences.