19 November, 2018
The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has identified a Wobbegong Shark was responsible for an incident at Gerroa on the South Coast yesterday.
A DPI shark biologist has assessed photographs of the wounds and a tooth fragment from the shark to identify it as a Wobbegong Shark.
A 24-year-old man from Sydney was participating in a surf lesson yesterday at Seven Mile Beach and was bitten on his hand and calf.
He was airlifted to St George Hospital and underwent surgery today.
Seven Mile Beach is not patrolled. Surf Life Saving NSW conducted patrols on jet boats today to look for any sharks in the area. Kiama Council made the decision to close all beaches in the immediate vicinity for 24 hours.
DPI continues to work with other agencies including NSW Police Marine Area Command and Surf Life Saving NSW, and will continue to monitor the situation and provide any technical advice and resources if required.
Water users are encouraged to download DPI’s SharkSmart app which helps swimmers, surfers and all water users be aware of how they can minimise their chances of an interaction with a shark.
Further information
Media contact: Lyndall Hilder
Phone: (02) 6391 3686