Sydney beaches closed after woman critically injured in shark attack

Authorities closed several of Sydney's most frequented beaches on June 13 after a swimmer suffered critical injuries in a shark attack. The incident occurred at Coogee Beach, prompting the immediate closure of nearby Clovelly and Bronte beaches as well. The affected woman, believed to be in her 30s, sustained severe injuries to her arm and leg.

Bystanders acted quickly to pull the woman from the water and administer first aid until emergency services arrived at the scene. Police confirmed the severity of her injuries, which were described as critical. The closures are a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring public safety following the attack.

This event adds to a concerning pattern of shark encounters in Australian waters this year. 2026 has already seen an unusual spate of attacks, including at least three fatalities. In May, a man died after an attack off the coast of Queensland, and another man was killed near Rottnest Island in Western Australia. Earlier in the year, a 12-year-old boy died in Sydney waters, leading to the temporary closure of numerous northern beaches.