Shark Attack Kills Surfer, Sydney Beaches Closed

A 57-year-old experienced surfer, Mercury Psillakis, tragically died after a shark attack at Long Reef/Dee Why Beach in Sydney, just a day before Father's Day. He suffered catastrophic injuries, including the loss of multiple limbs, and was pulled from the water by fellow surfers but could not be resuscitated. Authorities closed beaches from Manly to Narrabeen as they searched for the shark and took two sections of the victim's surfboard for expert examination to identify the species involved. This fatal attack is the first in New South Wales in over three years and marks the fourth shark-related death in Australia in 2025, highlighting the rarity but ongoing risk of shark encounters in the region. Local officials and Surf Lifesaving expressed deep condolences to Psillakis' family, emphasizing the tragedy's impact on the community. Lifeguards and police continue to monitor the area to ensure public safety while investigations proceed.