A woman in her 20s has died and a man of similar age suffered critical injuries following a shark attack at an isolated New South Wales beach on Thursday morning.
Authorities responded to Kylies Beach in Crowdy Bay National Park, located approximately 300 kilometers north of Sydney, after receiving reports of the attack. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene, while emergency personnel airlifted the injured man to a Newcastle hospital where he remains in critical condition.
NSW Ambulance Superintendent Josh Smyth credited a bystander’s quick thinking with potentially saving the male victim’s life. The witness applied an improvised tourniquet to the man’s leg before paramedics arrived, providing crucial trauma care during those initial moments.
“The courage from some bystanders is amazing in this situation,” Smyth told reporters. “To put yourself out there is heroic and obviously it did give us time to get to that male patient.”
The Department of Primary Industries believes a large bull shark was responsible for the attack. This species presents particular challenges for beachgoers because of its adaptability to both saltwater and freshwater environments. The Australian Museum identifies bull sharks as among the few species that pose potential danger to humans, while the International Shark Attack File ranks them as the third deadliest shark species globally.
Bull sharks’ ability to thrive in various water conditions brings them into more frequent contact with swimmers and surfers, particularly in coastal areas where rivers meet the ocean. Their aggressive nature and tolerance for shallow water contribute to their dangerous reputation.
Authorities have closed Kylies Beach indefinitely and deployed smart drumlines in the area. These devices use baited hooks to attract sharks, allowing researchers to tag and release them while monitoring their movements. The technology helps officials track shark populations and patterns without harming the animals.
Surf Life Saving NSW extended closures to surrounding beaches for at least 24 hours while drones conduct aerial surveillance of coastal waters. The organization wants to ensure no additional sharks are present before allowing swimmers back into the water.
“This is a terrible tragedy and our deepest condolences go to the families of the woman and man involved,” said Steve Pearce, chief executive of Surf Life Saving NSW. “For now, please remain clear of the water at beaches in the vicinity and follow the direction of lifeguards.”
The incident marks Australia’s fifth fatal shark attack in 2025. The previous fatality occurred less than three months ago at a northern Sydney beach, highlighting an unusual cluster of attacks in New South Wales waters this year.
Crowdy Bay National Park features remote beaches that attract visitors seeking uncrowded swimming spots away from heavily populated coastal areas. The park’s isolation, while appealing to some beachgoers, can complicate emergency response efforts and increase risks for those who encounter marine hazards.
Shark attacks remain statistically rare in Australia despite the country’s extensive coastline and beach culture. However, this year’s elevated number of fatal encounters has prompted renewed discussions about beach safety measures and shark management strategies.
Marine researchers note that multiple factors can influence shark behavior and attack frequency, including water temperature, fish migration patterns, and changes in coastal development. Understanding these variables helps authorities develop more effective prevention strategies.
The identities of the woman and man involved have not been publicly released pending family notifications. Investigators continue examining the circumstances of the attack to determine what brought the victims into contact with the shark.
