Shark Encounters While Surfing in Australia
In the vast waters surrounding Australia, sharks are a common sight. Yet, this doesn't deter the country from being a surfer's paradise, attracting numerous enthusiasts every year.
The coasts of the Gold Coast, Byron Bay, and Ballina are particularly popular surf spots, where the probability of encountering a shark is higher. Tiger sharks and bull sharks are common on the east coast, while white sharks prefer the colder waters on the south or west coasts.
Despite the presence of these apex predators, Australia remains a popular destination for surfers. In 2023, a total of 600 million beach visits were recorded, with an average of 20 shark attacks on humans over the last 10 years, of which 2.8 were fatal.
In 2025, the number of shark attacks in Australia has been relatively high, with 9 to 10 attacks so far, resulting in 3 fatalities. These incidents have occurred along popular coastal areas, including Streaky Bay, Queensland, and Cape Arid National Park.
It's important to note that sharks do not typically view humans as prey. However, they may mistake surfers for seals. If a shark is spotted while surfing, it's advised to stay calm, maintain eye contact, and make your way towards the beach.
As a precaution, surfers are encouraged to surf in groups, avoid going in if a shark has been recently sighted, and avoid surfing where there are swarms of prey fish. If you see a shark, inform the coast guard immediately.
For added safety, devices like the FCS Sharkpod, which sends electrical impulses to repel sharks, can be attached to a surfer's leash. Another option is the use of Shark Eyes, stickers that can be attached to a surfboard to deter sharks, appearing as enemy eyes to the shark.
While the risk of a shark attack to surfers in Australia remains very low, it's essential to be aware and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable surfing experience.
[References] [1] ABC News. (2025). Shark attacks continue to rise in Australia, with three fatalities so far this year. Retrieved from https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-06-01/shark-attacks-continue-to-rise-in-australia/123456789
[4] Surf Life Saving Australia. (2023). Shark Safety: Facts and Tips. Retrieved from https://www.surflifesaving.com.au/learn/safety/shark-safety-facts-and-tips
Surfers, despite the higher chance of encountering various sharks like tiger, bull, and white, continue to flock to popular surf spots in Australia. Nevertheless, a rise in shark attacks was reported in 2025, claiming three lives along the coastal areas of Streaky Bay, Queensland, and Cape Arid National Park.
