The death of one female, along with a 20 yr old man’s critical injuries resulted from a shark attack in New South Wales’ remote south-west water, which resulted in the Federal Government directing local and state authorities to shut down the 360 km coastal strip surrounding the area and to conduct a detailed investigation as to what species of shark, if any, were responsible for the attack.
Woman Dies at Kylie’s Beach During Morning Swim
An individual and their companion were caught in a terrible accident involving a drowning incident while playing in the water at Kylie’s Beach in Crowdy Bay National Park, located approximately 300 km north of Sydney, Australia. According to police reports, the individual died on site from serious injuries sustained during this incident, while the other person, believed to be of similar age to the deceased, suffered significant injuries and was subsequently flown to Newcastle for emergency medical intervention.
Early Thursday morning, emergency responders were dispatched to the incident site after an off-duty emergency medical technician who happened to be nearby used their training to create a makeshift tourniquet prior to paramedics arriving on scene. Emergency personnel reported that this action allowed them to treat and transport the survivor more effectively than would otherwise have been possible.
Police and Marine Authorities Launch Investigation
The NSW Police confirmed that they had contacted experts from the Department of Primary Industries for assistance. They have been working to identify the shark involved and have installed “smart” drumlines in the area.
These drumlines are used to catch sharks, tag them and return them to the ocean after they have been examined. Officials say they are working to collect additional data and decrease the chances of people swimming into similar danger.
Heroic Response from Bystanders Acknowledged
During a press conference, NSW Ambulance representative Josh Smyth commended the brave soul who intervened at the scene. Smyth indicated that had it not been for the bystander’s timely action, the victim’s condition may have deteriorated even further.
He deemed the act “heroic,” acknowledging that the bystander risked their own safety by acting while a shark was present and actively attacking. According to the authorities, the bystander’s response allowed paramedics time to prepare the injured swimmer for transport.
Beach Closures and Safety Measures Enforced
Surf Life Saving NSW confirmed that Kylies Beach was immediately closed, with surrounding beaches expected to remain off-limits for 24 hours. Lifeguards deployed drones to scan local waters for possible shark activity.
The organisation advised the public to avoid the water during this period and comply with safety instructions issued by officials. The incident occurred at what has been described as a remote area, which may affect access to rapid emergency response.
Statement from Surf Life Saving NSW
The Chief Executive of Surf Life Saving NSW, Steve Pearce, sent his condolences to the affected families and labelled this incident as A Tragic Incident. Beachgoers should observe the existing beach safety warnings and continue to keep abreast of any changes to safety guidelines.
As Authorities work to protect swimmers, Pearce further added that conditions will continue to be monitored and that he will provide them with updates on his monitoring efforts. He also confirmed that the current and ongoing drone surveillance of the Area will continue as part of our emergency response.
Australia Records Fifth Fatal Shark Attack This Year
This incident marks the fifth fatal shark attack in Australia in 2025. A previous fatality occurred less than three months earlier when a man died at Sydney’s northern beaches. Regional authorities have since continued discussions on marine safety programs and equipment.
While such attacks remain rare relative to coastal visitation numbers, officials acknowledged that remote environments present added challenges for fast emergency intervention.
Broader Shark Safety Measures Considered
Discussions on shark nets and alternative safety systems have resurfaced following this latest death, as reported by multiple Australian media outlets, including Yahoo News and The Hindu. Some regions continue to assess the balance between marine conservation and public protection.
As authorities search for answers in the latest attack, beach closures and monitoring remain the primary response tools. Smart drumlines and aerial surveillance are expected to stay in place until further review.
Also Read: Boy Injured in Stabbing at Melbourne Primary School as Two Campuses Enter Emergency Lockdown
Public Urged to Exercise Caution While Investigation Continues
Officials have requested that swimmers and surfers stay clear of the water in the wider Crowdy Bay vicinity. They also encouraged the public to remain watchful for updates from Surf Life Saving NSW, park authorities, and emergency departments.
At present, the priority remains the safety of visitors and the ongoing treatment of the surviving man. Investigations continue as marine experts gather information from the scene.
