The increase in shark attacks has mystified lifeguards, who say they have not seen an increase in shark sightings in recent months – though people are being urged to stay out of the water
A man has been attacked by a shark, with the mauling marking the fourth attack on the usually calm coastline in only a 48 hour period.
The surfer, a 39-year-old male, was bitten by a suspected bull shark on the New South Wales coast in AustraliaShark Attack Injures Surfer in Australia Amidst Flood Concerns
A surfer narrowly escaped serious injury after being attacked by a shark near Crescent Head, New South Wales, on January 20, 2026.The incident occurred following significant rainfall and flooding in the region, raising concerns about increased shark activity near river mouths.
Authorities strongly advise against swimming or surfing near river mouths due to the influx of freshwater and runoff, which attracts bull sharks. As local expert Bruce Peace explained, “Anytime after a big weather event there’s always going to be a lot of run-off and outflow of creeks into the ocean and river mouths. We really strongly advocate that nobody swim or surf near river mouths because it’s obviously an area where sharks congregate. If it’s dirty water I’d think twice about going in there.” Peace added that the area’s poor water quality further encourages bull shark activity, recommending people visit local pools instead.
“We have such poor water quality that’s conducive to bull shark activity… just go to a local pool, because at this stage, we’re advising that the beaches are unsafe.”
Matt Worrall, captain of the Kempsey-Crescent Head Surf Life Saving Club, confirmed the surfer was blessed to avoid severe injuries. “The surfboard seemed to take most of the impact,” he said.
Lifeguards are puzzled by the recent increase in shark attacks, noting no corresponding rise in shark sightings or population numbers compared to other seasons. Worrall stated, “We’ve all got our own theories as to what’s going on. I personally haven’t seen more sharks this season compared to other seasons. We think it has something to do with the freshwater that’s been pushing the sharks out of the river systems.”