Sydney shark attack leaves boy critically injured in harbour waters

Published: 19 January 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

A 12-year-old boy is in critical condition after a Sydney shark attack in Sydney harbour, prompting urgent warnings from police against swimming. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon near Nielsen Park in Sydney’s east, with officials saying the boy was jumping from a popular rock ledge with friends when a large shark, believed to be a bull shark, struck. Emergency crews responded immediately, with the boy’s friends jumping into the water to help, while officers applied double tourniquets to both legs to control severe bleeding.

Supt Joe McNulty, commander of NSW Police’s marine area command, praised the quick thinking of the boy’s companions, describing their intervention as “nothing but brave.” Police and ambulance teams worked tirelessly to stabilise him, performing CPR and intubation as he was transported by speedboat to Rose Bay and then to hospital. “The actions of emergency services yesterday gave him that chance,” McNulty said, emphasising the severity of the injuries.

NSW Ambulance Insp Giles Buchanan explained that the tourniquet was “definitely a life-saving intervention,” noting the boy was initially unconscious when help arrived. The boy’s fight for survival continues, with authorities reporting that injuries to both legs are extensive. Witnesses described a large shark, and officials confirmed this was a serious case of a Sydney shark attack, though the Department of Primary Industries has not yet confirmed the exact species involved.

The attack follows heavy rainfall over the weekend, which officials believe may have contributed to “the perfect storm” conditions for a shark encounter. McNulty explained that Sydney harbour is brackish, containing a mixture of freshwater and seawater, reducing visibility and creating a higher risk for swimmers. Splashes from people jumping into the water may have further attracted the shark, he added.

Following the attack, NSW SharkSmart advised all nearby beaches, including Shark Bay Beach and Camp Cove Beach, to remain closed. Later Monday, another shark sighting in the area forced beachgoers to evacuate, highlighting ongoing safety concerns.

Eyewitnesses reported the boy’s friends acted immediately, showing remarkable courage by pulling him from the water. Officers applied a double tourniquet to both legs and administered CPR, stabilising him for hospital transfer. Emergency responders described the situation as “resuscitation-level critical” and confirmed the boy required breathing assistance through intubation.

Authorities continue to urge residents and visitors to avoid swimming in affected areas. McNulty warned that despite appearances, the brackish water limits visibility, increasing the likelihood of encounters with dangerous wildlife. “It’s not a good time to swim,” he said. Local communities remain on high alert, with officials emphasising vigilance after reports of further shark activity.

On Monday, a separate incident occurred at Dee Why Point, where a young surfer was forced off his board by a lunging shark. Fortunately, he escaped unharmed and was assisted by fellow surfers. Authorities reinforced that these events underscore the unpredictable nature of shark behaviour, especially following heavy rainfall and murky water conditions.

Police confirmed the initial attack took place around 4.20pm, and a nearby speedboat responded within minutes. The prompt application of tourniquets and CPR by officers and emergency teams played a crucial role in saving the boy’s life. McNulty praised the coordination of police and paramedics, calling their response “textbook recovery” in a highly dangerous situation.

Experts noted that shark encounters tend to rise in brackish water, where saltwater mixes with freshwater from recent rains. Splashes caused by swimmers can mimic the movements of prey, attracting sharks closer to shore. Residents in Sydney’s eastern suburbs are advised to stay out of the water until conditions stabilise and authorities confirm safety.

Despite the terrifying nature of the incident, the boy’s friends and first responders are credited with providing him with a fighting chance. NSW SharkSmart continues to monitor the area, providing regular updates about beach closures and any further sightings. Officials have urged parents and children to exercise caution near harbour waters.

The attack has sparked renewed calls for shark awareness and safety measures across Sydney’s popular swimming spots. While rare, bull shark attacks can result in severe injuries, particularly in low-visibility conditions created by recent storms. Authorities emphasise the importance of following official warnings to prevent further incidents.

Residents have expressed shock and concern after witnessing the dramatic rescue. Social media has been flooded with messages praising the courage of the boy’s friends, as well as the swift action of police and paramedics. Community support has been overwhelming, with many sharing well-wishes for the young victim’s recovery.

Police continue their investigation into the attack while stressing public safety remains the top priority. NSW SharkSmart will maintain surveillance in the harbour and at nearby beaches until officials are confident it is safe for recreational swimming. Meanwhile, the community is urged to remain vigilant and heed all advisories.

Authorities also confirmed that emergency protocols, including the use of tourniquets and rapid CPR, were critical in preserving the boy’s life. Training and preparedness in such high-risk scenarios are credited with mitigating what could have been a fatal outcome. The boy’s condition remains critical, and medical teams continue to provide intensive care.

The Sydney shark attack serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with brackish waters, particularly following heavy rainfall and unpredictable weather. Families and visitors are being encouraged to respect all safety signage and updates issued by NSW Police and SharkSmart authorities.

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