A swimmer has been left fighting for his life after a terrifying shark attack at one of Sydney's most famous beaches. The incident occurred on Monday afternoon at Manly Beach, sending shockwaves through the local community and prompting immediate beach closures.
Emergency Response at Manly Beach
Emergency services were called to the scene just after 3:30 pm local time following reports a man had been bitten by a shark. Paramedics from NSW Ambulance treated the victim, a man in his 40s, for severe injuries to his leg. The attack happened near the shore, not far from the iconic Manly Surf Life Saving Club.
The victim was treated at the scene before being rushed to Royal North Shore Hospital in a critical condition. Witnesses described a scene of chaos and quick thinking, with fellow beachgoers and lifeguards rushing to help the injured man apply a tourniquet to his wounded leg before professional help arrived.
Beach Closures and Shark Sighting Reports
In the wake of the attack, authorities moved quickly to ensure public safety. Manly, Fairy Bower, and Shelly beaches were all immediately closed to swimmers. The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has been notified and is investigating the incident.
This serious attack follows another recent shark incident in the area. Just last Thursday, a separate shark bite was reported at nearby Little Bay Beach. In that case, a surfer sustained injuries to his hand but did not require hospital treatment. The consecutive events have heightened concerns along the coastline.
Community Reaction and Safety Advice
The attack has deeply affected the Manly community, a suburb renowned for its vibrant beach culture. Local residents and visitors are being urged to remain vigilant and to heed all safety warnings from lifeguards and official sources.
Authorities are reminding the public of standard beach safety protocols in light of the attack. Swimmers are advised to:
- Always swim between the red and yellow flags on patrolled beaches.
- Avoid swimming at dawn, dusk, or night.
- Refrain from swimming in areas where fishing is occurring or where fish are schooling.
- Stay informed about any shark sightings or beach closures via official channels.
The investigation into the species of shark involved and the exact circumstances of the attack is ongoing. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers present in Australian waters, even close to shore at popular metropolitan beaches.
