 Brisbane: A 17-year-old girl has died after a shark attack at Woorim Beach, Queensland, Australia. Paramedics responded to a “serious shark bite incident” around 16:45 local time. The victim suffered life-threatening injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after 17:00. The attack happened close to shore at a popular surfing spot.
Tragic Incident
The girl had been swimming off Bribie Island when the shark attacked. Police have not yet identified the shark species. The Queensland Ambulance Service confirmed she sustained critical upper-body injuries. Reports say she was bitten on the arm about 100 meters from shore.
Eyewitness Accounts
Christopher Potter, who arrived shortly after, described the tragedy as shocking. “Many people swim here daily, morning and afternoon,” he told ABC News. Despite the area’s known shark presence, attacks this close to shore are rare. The local community has expressed sadness and concern.
Shark Control Measures
Woorim Beach has drumlines—baited hooks designed to catch sharks before they reach swimmers. Targeted sharks are euthanized, while non-threatening species are relocated. Authorities are now reviewing the effectiveness of these shark control measures.
Previous Attacks
This marks Australia’s second fatal shark attack in 2024. Surfer Lance Appleby was killed in South Australia on January 2. The last fatal attack near Brisbane was in 2006 when Sarah Whiley, 21, lost her life. Queensland’s government states that shark attacks are rare despite the presence of many species.
Community Response
Locals and beachgoers have expressed grief over the incident. Many call for increased shark safety measures along the coast. Authorities remind swimmers to stay vigilant and follow safety guidelines. Investigations into the attack will continue in the coming days.
