Mateship in Action: Police Praise Brave Boys for Saving 12-Year-Old’s Life in Sydney Harbour Shark Attack

Sydney Harbour’s calm waters turned terrifying on Sunday afternoon when a 12-year-old boy was brutally attacked by what police believe was a bull shark during a popular rock-jumping session. The incident occurred around 4:20pm at Hermitage Foreshore Walk near Shark Beach in Vaucluse, a scenic but deceptively risky spot known for its stunning views and adventurous jumps.

alltrails.com

Hermitage Foreshore Walk, New South Wales, Australia – 414 Reviews …

The boy was leaping off rocks with friends into the water when the shark struck, targeting his lower legs with severe bites. Emergency services rushed to the scene after a frantic triple-0 call, but it was the quick-thinking actions of his young mates that proved lifesaving. The group—showing remarkable courage—jumped into the surf to drag him out despite the confronting sight of his critical injuries.

sydneyoutdoors.com

Hermitage Foreshore Walk on Sydney Harbour – Sydney Outdoors

NSW Police Superintendent Joseph McNulty hailed the boys’ bravery, describing it as “true mateship.” He noted the scene was “horrendous,” with the victim suffering severe lacerations to both legs from what experts suspect was a bull shark, known for its aggressive behavior in murky, shallow waters. One friend reportedly leapt in immediately to pull his mate to safety, exposing themselves to potential danger while waiting for water police to arrive with medical tourniquets.

nypost.com

Teen in critical condition after being mauled by shark, rescued by …

The boy was stabilized on-site by officers from Marine Area Command and Eastern Suburbs Police, who applied tourniquets to control massive blood loss. He was then rushed to Sydney Children’s Hospital at Randwick in critical condition, where he remains in intensive care fighting for his life. Doctors continue to monitor his condition closely amid concerns over blood loss, infection, and trauma.

abc.net.au

Shark attack at Sydney Harbour beach leaves boy in intensive care …

Bull sharks, capable of reaching over 3 meters, are notorious for venturing into freshwater and estuarine areas like Sydney Harbour. Experts point to recent murky conditions possibly drawing them closer to shore. This attack follows a pattern of rare but increasing encounters in the region, with authorities urging swimmers to avoid unpatrolled waters, especially after recent incidents including a shark biting a surfboard nearby.

9news.com.au

Shark news: Fisherman catches monster bull shark in Sydney Harbour

Hermitage Foreshore Walk, a popular trail offering panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, features rocky ledges ideal for jumping but outside netted swimming zones. The area near Shark Beach—ironically named—has long attracted thrill-seekers, yet officials warn of hidden dangers like strong currents and marine life.

nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

Hermitage Foreshore Track | NSW National Parks

The heroic rescue highlights Australian “mateship”—selfless camaraderie in crisis. Police emphasized how the friends’ actions, combined with rapid emergency response, likely saved the boy’s life. “It was touch and go,” McNulty said, praising the boys for facing “confronting” injuries without hesitation.

Swimmers are advised to avoid entering nearby waters for the time being, with patrols increased. The incident has reignited debates on shark safety in urban harbors, from drum lines to education on risks.

As the young victim battles in hospital, the community rallies in support, celebrating the bravery that turned tragedy into a story of survival. In a city where harbour life blends beauty and peril, this act of courage reminds us that true heroes often wear school uniforms.