Shark encounters are a known risk along Australia’s coastline, and authorities regularly remind swimmers and surfers to remain alert in the water. While many people enjoy the ocean safely every year, unpredictable wildlife encounters can still occur. Last summer, a frightening incident in New South Wales highlighted just how quickly danger can unfold—and how fast community members can respond in an emergency.
In June 2025, a 16-year-old boy was attacked by a shark while swimming at Cabarita Beach on the state’s north coast. Video footage from the scene shows the shark following the teenager toward shallow water before beachgoers rushed in to help him reach safety.
Australia records dozens of shark-related incidents each year, though most are non-fatal. According to reports, more than 20 shark encounters were documented nationwide last year alone. This particular incident involved a bull shark measuring approximately two meters (nearly seven feet), a species known to frequent coastal waters.
Emergency unfolds at Cabarita Beach
The incident occurred at approximately 4:00 p.m. on June 29, 2025. Beach safety alerts were quickly raised after the shark attacked the teenager, causing serious injuries to his arm, hand, and leg. Despite the shock of the situation, nearby swimmers, surfers, and beach visitors acted immediately.
Witnesses described a fast-moving rescue effort, with multiple people working together to remove the injured boy from the water and transport him to nearby grass where emergency care could begin. Paramedics arrived shortly after and provided critical first aid.
A volunteer surf lifesaver from the Rainbow Bay Surf Club, Thiago Collela, happened to be nearby at the time. He told ABC Australia that he initially heard screams while filming marine life offshore and immediately ran toward the beach.
“I saw surfers bringing the injured boy in on a surfboard, moving him to where a paramedic was already waiting,” Collela said.
He stayed with the teenager, speaking to him and helping keep him calm while medical professionals treated his injuries.
“I was holding his head and talking to him while a tourniquet was applied,” Collela explained. “He was incredibly brave and even mentioned trying to fight the shark off.”
Witnesses describe tense moments
Another teenager, 16-year-old Bohdi McDonald, said he was roughly 30 meters away when the attack occurred. He described seeing the shark moving in shallow water as people worked to get the injured swimmer out safely.
“It looked like it was still circling as everyone rushed to help,” he said.
Teen survives thanks to rapid response
Thanks to the fast action of bystanders, surf lifesavers, and emergency responders, the injured teenager survived the attack and was transported for further medical treatment. Authorities praised the coordinated response and reminded the public of the importance of beach safety awareness, especially in regions where shark activity is known.
Officials continue to encourage swimmers and surfers to monitor local warnings, avoid swimming at dusk, and stay alert to ocean conditions.
The incident serves as a powerful reminder of both the risks of ocean swimming and the life-saving impact of quick-thinking community action.