An 11-year-old boy escaped injury when a shark bit his surfboard at Dee Why Point, on Sydney’s northern beaches, on 19 January 2026. It was Sydney’s second shark incident in less than 24 hours.
Key Facts
- When: Late morning, Monday 19 January 2026.
- Where: Dee Why Point, northern beaches.
- Injuries: None.
- Board damage: A bite mark of about 15 cm, plus smaller bites.
- Shark: Most likely a bull shark, according to a first look at photos by NSW shark biologists.
What the Boy Said
He told the Manly Observer: “I was on the board when the shark came up and bit it. I got knocked off the board. One of the guys out there went over to me and helped me get back in to shore quickly.”
He added: “I’m physically fine but I’m obviously rattled and the board has a chunk taken out of it and a couple of bite marks in it.”
Beach Closed
Lifeguards sounded the alarm, put up shark signs and sent a jet ski to patrol. Surf Life Saving NSW launched a drone. The beach was closed for at least 24 hours.
A Run of Attacks
The day before, 12-year-old Nico Antic was badly hurt by a shark at Vaucluse. He later died in hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was the boy at Dee Why hurt?
No. The shark bit his surfboard, but he was not injured.
What kind of shark was it?
Shark biologists said it was most likely a bull shark.
Why were there so many shark incidents?
Experts said murky water after heavy rain suited bull sharks.
Conclusion
The boy was very lucky. Swimmers and surfers should avoid murky water after rain.
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