In brief
Leah Stewart, 35, was bitten by a shark at Sydney’s Coogee Beach in June 2026, sustaining multiple bites, an arm amputation and a period in an induced coma. The GoFundMe campaign raised more than AU$550,000 to fund her recovery and future medical care. In her first public comments since the attack, Stewart said she feels she has been given a second chance at life and vows not to waste it. The incident is part of a wider spate of shark attacks across Australia this year, sparking debate over shark netting.
On June 3, 2026, Leah Stewart, 35, was bitten by a shark while swimming at Sydney’s Coogee Beach, suffering severe injuries to her arms and legs.
She spent weeks in an induced coma, underwent multiple surgeries and had her arm amputated. Her recovery was marked by remarkable progress, with each milestone bringing her closer to independence.
A GoFundMe campaign raised more than AU$550,000, allowing her to recover at home and explore further medical options. The funds helped cover hospital bills, rehabilitation and future treatments.
In a heartfelt post, Stewart thanked her family, friends and the wider community, saying she feels given a second chance at life and will not waste it. She expressed that the love and encouragement surrounding her have inspired her to focus on healing rather than bitterness.
Her experience reflects a broader pattern of shark attacks in Australia this year, including multiple incidents in January, May and early June. The increasing number of attacks has reignited debate over the use of shark nets and the broader implications for marine safety and conservation.
