After four shark attacks in 48 hours, NSW authorities urge beachgoers ‘just go to a pool’

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Nick VisserJanuary 20, 2026 at 02:58 AM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

Following four shark attacks in 48 hours along the New South Wales coast, authorities are urging people to avoid beaches. The most recent incident occurred near Point Plomer, where a 39-year-old surfer was hospitalized with minor injuries on Tuesday. This follows attacks on a 12-year-old boy near Nielsen Park, an 11-year-old surfer at Dee Why, and a man at Manly beach, all within the past two days. Surf Life Saving NSW has increased surveillance and closed beaches between Town beach and Crescent Head, with all northern beaches in Sydney closed until at least Thursday. Experts attribute the increased shark activity to poor water quality caused by recent heavy rains, creating brackish and murky conditions that attract sharks and bait fish.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Vaucluse ×240% Port Macquarie Australian Lifeguard Service 50% Donna Wishart 50% Manly beach 50% Crescent Head ×260% Point Plomer campground 60% NSW Department of Primary Industries 60% Port Macquarie ×270% Steven Pearce 70% Sydney ×580% Surf Life Saving NSW ×280% New South Wales ×390%

Keywords

shark attacks 100% beach safety 80% beach closures 70% water quality 70% bull shark 60% surf life saving nsw 60% new south wales 50% coastal waters 50%