Authorities closed beaches in the La Perouse area of Botany Bay, New South Wales, Australia over the weekend following a suspected Great White shark attack.
A woman, 55, was bitten by the shark while swimming just 20 meters from the shore of Little Congwong Beach last Friday evening.
She suffered serious bite lacerations to her leg. Paramedics subsequently rushed her to hospital. She underwent surgery and is continuing to recover.
It’s the first shark attack in the area in 25 years, leaving locals shocked.
Speaking of the attack to news.com.au, Randwick Mayor Lindsay Shurey said, ‘I think she’s very lucky to still have her leg… and to survive.’
Authorities closed local beaches for 24 hours following the attack.
Congwong Bay has a number of secluded beaches (Photo: Maurice Van Creij | CC-by-3.0)
Shark experts, after looking at photos of the woman’s ‘severe injuries’, have concluded a Great White ‘most likely responsible.’
Little Congwong Beach is a popular hangout for the local gay male community. Although not an official nudist beach, its sheltered location has made it a popular spot for nude sunbathing.
The beach has now reopened, just ahead of Sydney’s Mardi Gras celebrations this weekend. Swimmers may want to show caution and avoid swimming at dusk.
Mayor Shurey says the local council will be reviewing whether to install shark nets at the location.
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