Home / Disasters and Accidents / Sydney Shark Attack: Boy, 12, Honored at Bondi Beach
Sydney Shark Attack: Boy, 12, Honored at Bondi Beach
1 Feb
Summary
- A 12-year-old boy died after a shark attack in Sydney Harbour.
- A memorial surfing ceremony was held at Bondi Beach for the boy.
- Recent shark attacks have led to beach closures along Australia's east coast.
A poignant paddle-out ceremony took place at Bondi Beach on Sunday, February 1, 2026, to honor 12-year-old Nico Antic. Nico tragically succumbed to injuries sustained during a shark attack in Sydney Harbour on January 24, 2026.
The attack occurred six days prior when Nico and his friends leaped from rocks in Vaucluse. He was pulled from the water with severe leg injuries. Friends and surf lifesavers participated in the ocean tribute.
This heartfelt ceremony occurs amidst heightened concern over shark activity. In January 2026, numerous beaches, including those in Sydney, were temporarily shut down. This decision followed four shark attacks within two days, exacerbated by heavy rains that created murky water conditions.
Last September, a surfer was fatally attacked by a large shark at Sydney's Long Reef Beach. Despite these incidents, Australia's annual average of 20 shark attacks, with fewer than three fatalities, is significantly lower than drownings at the nation's beaches.
