Woman Killed in Shark Attack off NSW Mid-North Coast — Another Tourist Lifeless After Early-Morning Swim

A woman in her 20s has died and a man has been seriously injured following a shark attack at Kylies Beach, located in Crowdy Bay National Park on the New South Wales mid-north coast. The pair, believed to be European tourists in their mid-20s, were swimming early Thursday morning — around 6:30 a.m. local time — when the shark struck. Despite the efforts of bystanders and emergency services, the woman died at the scene.

The man was rushed by helicopter to hospital with serious leg injuries. A bystander reportedly applied a makeshift tourniquet, a move emergency officials later said likely saved his life.

What authorities know so far

• Forensic analysis by experts from the state fisheries department suggests the attacker was likely a large bull shark, though officials have not ruled out other species.
• In a rare and tragic occurrence, the shark is believed to have attacked both swimmers — an event experts describe as “highly unusual.”
• Authorities immediately closed Kylies Beach and neighbouring coastline areas, deploying “SMART” drumlines (baited hooks with alert systems) and drones to monitor for further shark activity.

Response from rescue agencies and community

Officials from the state’s surf lifesaving organisation expressed deep sorrow over the loss, calling it a “terrible tragedy,” and urged the public to avoid all waters in the region.

Emergency services praised the quick-thinking bystander whose first-aid likely saved the male victim’s life. Paramedics stressed how critical that immediate response was to stopping fatal blood loss.

Local authorities plan a coroner’s report to formally identify the woman, and to determine the full sequence of events that led to the attack.

Context: Shark risk and rising concerns

While shark attacks remain very rare overall, experts note the number of unprovoked shark-human interactions around Australia has increased over recent decades — driven by a mix of environmental change, increased coastal population and more ocean activity by people.

Occurrences such as Thursday’s attack — involving two victims — are even more rare. According to one scientist, a single shark attacking two people is “exceptionally rare,” underscoring the tragic unpredictability of the incident.

This year alone, multiple fatal shark attacks have been recorded along the NSW coast, prompting renewed calls for reviewing beach safety measures, greater public awareness, and expanded use of non-lethal shark-deterrent technologies.

What to know if you’re heading to the water

• Avoid swimming at unpatrolled, remote beaches — especially early in the morning or near dusk, when sharks are more active.
• Look out for recent warnings or shark-sighting notices; local authorities may close beaches temporarily.
• Carry a basic first-aid kit if you visit remote beaches, and try to swim with company — immediate help can save lives.
• Stay alert for unusual wildlife activity (schools of fish, diving birds, dolphins), which may attract sharks.

Final thought

The fatal attack at Kylies Beach is a grim reminder that even remote corners of the coast can pose serious dangers. For one family — and for the community and visitors of Crowdy Bay — a beach trip ended in tragedy. As authorities work to prevent further incidents, the balance between enjoying Australia’s natural beauty and respecting its wild nature becomes ever more crucial.