A woman has died and a man has been critically injured after a shark attacked them during an early-morning swim at Kylies Beach in Crowdy Bay National Park, on Australia’s New South Wales mid-north coast.
The incident occurred around 6:30 a.m. local time on Thursday, November 27 2025, prompting authorities to close the beach and nearby coastal areas while launching an investigation.
Emergency services responded after bystanders reported the attack. A bystander placed a makeshift tourniquet on the man’s leg, an action described as likely lifesaving. The woman died at the scene. The man was airlifted to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle and is now in serious but stable condition.
Details of the Attack and Immediate Response
Police and wildlife experts from New South Wales Department of Primary Industries (DPIRD) are investigating the attack. Forensic analysis has determined that a “large bull shark” was likely responsible. Officials deployed five SMART drumlines — baited devices intended to detect and tag sharks — and began drone surveillance over the coastline to assess ongoing risk.
The stretch of coastline at Crowdy Bay is remote and unpatrolled. The nearest surf lifesaving club lies several kilometres away. According to Surf Life Saving NSW, the area is frequently visited by campers and holiday-goers despite lacking regular lifeguard or detection services.
Authorities have closed Kylies Beach along with nearby beaches including North Haven Beach, Pilot Beach, and Dunbogan Beach until further notice. The sudden closure disrupts visitor access and raises concern among travellers and local tourism operators. For weeks following the attack, swimmers and holiday-makers are expected to monitor updates from local authorities before returning to the water.
Experts say the double attack is rare. “It is quite unusual, but it’s not unheard of,” said marine ecologist Rob Harcourt of Macquarie University. Some shark-attack databases classify incidents involving two victims as extremely uncommon. Nevertheless, this event becomes Australia’s fifth fatal shark-bite this year, highlighting persistent risks along remote coastal zones.
The incident may prompt renewed scrutiny of safety infrastructure along Australia’s less-populated beaches. Previously, Kylies Beach lacked shark-detection technology; listening stations located 20 km and 40 km away registered no shark activity the morning of the attack. The deployment of drumlines and drone surveillance marks an immediate but provisional response by authorities.
Holiday-makers basing themselves at the nearby campground are believed to have included two European tourists in their 20s. Local officials emphasized the need for caution. “This is a terrible tragedy and our deepest condolences go to the families of the woman and man involved,” said Steve Pearce, CEO of Surf Life Saving NSW. He urged people to stay out of the water while the area remains closed pending further evaluation.
The attack underscores risks that remote beaches may pose — even during daylight hours. Travellers planning visits to wild or isolated coastlines should remain vigilant and consult local advisories for safety updates. NSW authorities will continue monitoring the area and assessing whether shark-detection systems should be expanded.
