A New South Wales Department of Primary Industries (DPI) shark biologist has confirmed a white shark – Carcharodon carcharias, also known as the great white, white shark or ‘white pointer’, was responsible for a fatal bite at Wooli Beach, based on photographs from the scene.
NSW DPI is assisting Surf Life Saving NSW (SLS NSW) and NSW Police in responding to the incident, in which a teenage boy suffered a bite to the upper left thigh.
Witnesses have told police a shark attacked the teenager while he was surfing at Wilsons Headland at Wooli Beach just before 2.30pm on Saturday (11 July).
Several board-riders came to his assistance before the injured teen could be helped to shore.
First aid was rendered for serious injuries to his legs and despite CPR efforts to revive him, the 17-year-old died at the scene.
NSW DPI extends sincere condolences to the young man’s family and friends.
NSW DPI has mobilised the Shark Incident Response Team and deployed SMART drumlines in the area to catch and release any sharks offshore.
Surf Life Saving NSW will conduct sweeps of the area via drone throughout the day.
Beaches in the area have been closed.
All beachgoers are encouraged to download our SharkSmart app and follow @NSWSharkSmart on Twitter to get the latest information.
Further information about sharks can be found at the Department’s website www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/sharks/
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