This incident adds to a troubling trend, as there has been an increase in shark attacks in Australia, particularly in Queensland, in recent months.

In response to the attack, multiple helicopters have begun searching the area for the shark involved.

On March 7, 2025, a 57-year-old woman named Mangyon 'Mani' Zhang was attacked by a shark at Gunyah Beach near Bundeena, NSW, around 1:30 PM.

Zhang described the attack as unexpected, recalling a sudden strike to her leg followed by excruciating pain, although she did not see the attacker.

Bystanders quickly rushed to her aid, using towels as makeshift tourniquets to control her bleeding before emergency services arrived.

The timely actions of these bystanders were crucial, as they pulled Zhang from the water and administered first aid despite the ongoing danger from the shark.

She suffered severe injuries to her right leg, including deep lacerations above her knee, but fortunately avoided damage to major arteries.

The couple has received an overwhelming amount of support from the community following the incident.

Despite her traumatic experience, Zhang is in good spirits, expressing gratitude towards her rescuers and humorously noting her age was inaccurately reported.

After initial treatment on the beach, Zhang was airlifted to St George Hospital in a serious but stable condition.

Emergency services responded promptly, with local paramedics arriving within 19 minutes to provide care.

Zhang underwent a four-hour surgery on the day of the attack, with additional surgery planned within the next 48 hours to further assess her injuries.