A Swiss couple who were fatally attacked by a bull shark on a remote New South Wales beach had been seeking local employment, according to reports. The 25-year-old woman died at the scene, while her 26-year-old partner was airlifted to hospital in a stable condition.
The attack occurred at Kylies Beach in Crowdy Bay National Park at dawn on Thursday. Authorities believe a three-metre bull shark first attacked the woman, then her partner when he tried to rescue her. Police are reviewing GoPro footage from the scene to understand the incident better.
Surf Life Saving NSW reopened Kylies, North Haven, and Crowdy Bay beaches on Friday after increased surveillance found no further threats. Drones and jetskis will continue monitoring the area, especially with hot weather expected to draw crowds.
NSW Ambulance Inspector Kirran Mowbray praised a bystander who used her swimmers as a tourniquet on the man's leg, saying she 'essentially saved his life.' The Swiss Consulate confirmed one national died and another was injured, offering consular support.
Experts say the double attack is rare but unlikely to indicate an ongoing threat. Dr Brianna Le Busque from the University of South Australia warned against comparisons to the film Jaws, stating it was likely a 'horrific freak incident.' The Department of Primary Industries deployed smart drumlines but has caught no sharks since the attack.
