A 12-year-old boy remains in critical condition after being attacked by a shark at a well-known swimming area in Sydney, an incident that has shocked the local community and intensified concerns following multiple shark encounters along the coast in recent days. The boy, identified as Nico Antic, was injured while swimming with friends near Shark Beach in Vaucluse, a location popular for rock jumping and recreational swimming.
The attack occurred while Nico and several other children were in the water at a rocky section of the harbor. At some point during the swim, he was bitten by what is believed to have been a bull shark. The suddenness of the incident left little time for reaction, but the actions of those nearby proved critical in the moments that followed.
One of Nico’s friends immediately jumped into the water to assist him after the attack. Two other boys helped pull Nico from the water onto a nearby rock platform. By that time, he had lost consciousness and was suffering from severe injuries to his legs. Emergency services were alerted as bystanders attempted to provide help while waiting for professional responders to arrive.
Police marine units reached the scene and transferred Nico onto a police boat. On board, officers and emergency personnel performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation and applied tourniquets to control heavy bleeding caused by his injuries. The boat then transported him as quickly as possible to shore, where he was rushed to Sydney Children’s Hospital.
Medical teams worked to stabilize Nico during transport and upon arrival at the hospital. He received several blood transfusions before reaching the facility and was placed into an induced coma. Surgeons operated in an effort to address the extensive injuries sustained in the attack. Hospital officials have confirmed that he remains in critical condition.
Nico is a member of the local surf lifesaving community and served as a Nipper at North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club, an organization that trains children in beach safety, swimming, and rescue skills. The club and broader surf lifesaving community have expressed deep concern and support for Nico and his family during the ongoing medical emergency.
In the days following the attack, a fundraiser was established to support the Antic family as they face mounting medical and related expenses. Victor Piñeiro, who described himself as a close friend of the family, shared an update on the fundraising page on Tuesday. His message conveyed the seriousness of the situation and the emotional toll the incident has taken.
The full message reads: ”Tragically, their beloved child, Nico, was attacked by a shark on Sunday in Sydney harbor and sustained devastating injuries. Despite all efforts, this heartbreaking event has led to the worst possible outcome.
“We are raising funds to help the Antic family cover upcoming expenses and related arrangements during this incredibly difficult time. Any contribution, no matter the size, would be deeply appreciated and will help ease the financial burden as they grieve. All funds will be donated to the Antic family.”
As of the latest update, the fundraiser has collected $65,000, reflecting a strong outpouring of support from the community and beyond. Donations continue as friends, neighbors, and strangers contribute to assist the family during this period of uncertainty.
Media reports have provided slightly differing accounts of Nico’s medical status. One outlet reported that he is on life support, while other sources confirmed that he is alive but remains in critical condition. Hospital officials have not released further details, citing patient privacy and the evolving nature of his condition.
The incident involving Nico occurred amid a series of shark encounters along the Sydney coastline, raising alarm among residents, surfers, and swimmers. Authorities and marine experts are closely monitoring the situation as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding each attack.
Just a few kilometers from Shark Beach, another frightening encounter occurred on Monday when an 11-year-old boy narrowly avoided serious injury after a large shark bit into his surfboard. The impact tore a substantial piece from the board and threw the boy into the water. He was able to escape without physical injury.
Steven Pearce, chief executive of Surf Life Saving New South Wales, commented on the incident and emphasized how fortunate the young surfer was to survive the encounter.
“I have to say that the young boy [today] is extremely lucky to get away with just a chunk out of the board — certainly a terrifying situation and it’s just very fortuitous that he had his father there with him at the same time,” he said.
A section of the damaged surfboard was later recovered and sent to New South Wales Fisheries for analysis. Experts hope the bite marks will help determine the species of shark involved in that incident and contribute to broader monitoring efforts.
Later on the same day, a third shark attack was reported at Manly Beach. A male swimmer in his 20s was bitten and sustained serious injuries. He was transported to Royal North Shore Hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Emergency services responded swiftly, and the beach was evacuated as a precaution.
Following these incidents, authorities ordered the closure of all Northern Beaches until further notice. The decision was made to reduce risk to the public while investigations and patrols continue. Beach closures remain in effect as officials assess shark activity in the area.
Initial assessments indicate that bull sharks were responsible for the first two attacks. Bull sharks are known for their ability to thrive in both saltwater and freshwater environments, making harbors and estuaries part of their natural range. The species involved in the third attack at Manly Beach has not yet been confirmed.
One witness near the earlier incident reported seeing a bull shark estimated to be about 1.5 meters long in the area around the time of the attack. Marine authorities have not confirmed the sighting but are taking witness accounts into consideration as part of their ongoing review.
The recent cluster of shark encounters has reignited discussion around beach safety, marine monitoring, and public awareness in coastal communities. Authorities continue to urge caution and remind swimmers and surfers to follow all advisories and closures while conditions are assessed.
As Nico Antic remains hospitalized in critical condition, attention remains focused on his recovery and on supporting his family. The incident has deeply affected the local community, particularly those involved in surf lifesaving and youth water programs, highlighting the unpredictable risks associated with ocean activities even in well-known and frequently visited areas.
Investigations into each attack are ongoing, with authorities coordinating across state agencies to gather data, monitor shark movements, and determine when it will be safe to reopen affected beaches. In the meantime, emergency services and community organizations continue to provide support to those impacted by the recent events.