Surge in Shark Attacks Along New South Wales Coast

Wed Jan 21 2026 04:56:37 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A surfer was bitten in the fourth reported shark attack in New South Wales in just 48 hours, raising concerns over beach safety and environmental conditions.

In a troubling recent series of events, a surfer on New South Wales' Mid North Coast became the fourth victim of a shark attack within a mere 48 hours. Following heavy rains, officials warn that these conditions could attract sharks closer to shore, prompting beach closures as authorities monitor the situation.

A surfer has been bitten by a shark, the fourth attack along Australia's New South Wales (NSW) coastline in under 48 hours.

The 39-year-old man 'sustained a wound to his chest' after a shark bit his board on the Mid North Coast on Tuesday morning, police reported. He has since been released from the hospital.

This incident follows three other attacks in Sydney over recent days, leading to the closure of all northern area beaches until further notice.

The surge in attacks is thought to correlate with heavy rains in the region, which NSW Superintendent Joseph McNulty noted may create a 'perfect storm environment' for sharks due to nutrients flushed into the water drawing them closer to shore.

The latest attack occurred near the Point Plomer campground, located about 450 kilometers (279 miles) north of Sydney. Despite the risk, Steve Pearce, chief executive of Surf Life Saving NSW, mentioned that the surfer was fortunate to escape with comparatively minor injuries.

Authorities have advised against swimming or surfing near river mouths, which are known hotspots for shark activity, especially in murky waters post-rainfall. A series of recent shark encounters has heightened public caution, with the attacks involving young surfers and leading to severe injuries in some cases.

Most attacks are believed to involve bull sharks, known for their adaptability to both fresh and saltwater environments and their potential danger to humans. Bull sharks are typically seen around Sydney during January and February when water temperatures rise.

While Australia is known for shark attacks, experts believe this recent cluster is unusual. Public advisories are now in place, urging surfers and swimmers to prioritize safety by avoiding waterways during this unsettled weather.