Mid-North Coast Tragedy: Shark Attack at Tuncurry Beach
On May 18, 2021, the serene shores of Tuncurry Beach, located just north of Forster on the Mid-North Coast of New South Wales, became the site of a tragic shark attack. A 59-year-old surfer from Sydney’s northern beaches, later identified as Mark Sanguinetti, lost his life after being mauled by a 4.5-metre great white shark. This incident, described as “unprecedented” by local officials, sent shockwaves through the community and highlighted the unpredictable nature of the ocean. While drone footage did not capture the attack itself, it played a significant role in the response, aiding authorities in monitoring shark activity and ensuring public safety.
Details of the Attack
The attack occurred around 11:20 am on a Tuesday morning, as Sanguinetti was surfing with friends during a holiday on the Mid-North Coast. According to reports, he spotted the shark moments before the attack and attempted to warn others in the water, a heroic act that underscores the sudden and dangerous nature of the encounter. The shark, identified through forensic analysis of bite marks on Sanguinetti’s surfboard as a 4.5-metre great white, bit him on the upper right thigh, causing critical injuries. His friends managed to paddle him to shore, where bystanders and emergency services performed CPR, but despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics at approximately 12:30 pm.
Detail | Information |
|---|---|
Location | Tuncurry Beach, near Forster, NSW Mid-North Coast |
Victim | Mark Sanguinetti, 59, from Sydney’s northern beaches |
Time of Incident | Approximately 11:20 am, May 18, 2021 |
Injuries | Critical injuries to upper right thigh |
Shark Details | 4.5-metre great white shark, confirmed by bite analysis |
Outcome | Victim died despite CPR efforts by friends and emergency services |
Response and Safety Measures
In the immediate aftermath, authorities acted swiftly to protect beachgoers. Surf Life Saving NSW closed beaches from Black Head to One Mile, including Tuncurry and Forster, for at least 24 hours. The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) deployed SMART drumlines, non-lethal traps designed to capture, tag, and relocate sharks away from popular beaches. On the morning following the attack, a shark was caught on a drumline off Tuncurry Beach, though it was not believed to be the one responsible for the attack. Drones were also deployed to patrol the waters, providing real-time surveillance and aiding in the search for the shark involved.
The DPI and forensic police analyzed the damage to Sanguinetti’s surfboard to confirm the shark’s species and size, determining it was likely a great white. Surf life savers continued drone patrols for several days to monitor shark activity, and the public was advised to stay updated via the NSW SharkSmart app or X posts for real-time information on shark sightings and beach closures.
Role of Drone Footage
While the shark attack itself was not captured on video, drone footage played a pivotal role in the response. Drones deployed by the DPI and Surf Life Saving teams spotted several sharks in the area, including at least two approximately three metres long and a 4.5-metre great white, matching the description of the shark involved in the attack. This footage, captured near the site of the incident, provided critical information for authorities, helping them assess the risk and make informed decisions about beach closures and safety protocols. The use of drones underscores the growing importance of technology in shark monitoring, offering a non-invasive way to track marine life and enhance public safety.
Context and Background
Shark attacks, while rare, are a known risk in Australian waters. In the year prior to the Tuncurry incident, eight people were killed in shark attacks across the country, according to the Taronga Conservation Society. However, the Tuncurry attack was particularly shocking for the local community, as Brian Wilcox, a Surf Life Saving official, noted that he could not recall any previous shark attacks in the area. The Mid-North Coast, including Tuncurry and Forster, is not typically known for frequent shark encounters, making this event a rare and tragic occurrence.
The incident followed a reported shark sighting at nearby Main Beach the day before, suggesting heightened shark activity in the region. Additionally, drone operators in the area, such as The Rogue Droner, had previously captured footage of great white sharks near Tuncurry Beach in 2019, indicating that sharks are not uncommon in these waters, particularly near the Forster-Tuncurry harbour where bait fish like mullet attract predators.
Community Impact and Healing
The loss of Mark Sanguinetti deeply affected the surfing community and residents of the Mid-North Coast. On May 30, 2021, approximately 150 people gathered at Tuncurry Beach for a smoking ceremony led by Worimi Elder Steve Brereton to mourn Sanguinetti and facilitate healing. The ceremony, organized by Josh Kirkman, was a significant step for the community, many of whom re-entered the water for the first time since the attack. This cultural practice highlighted the connection to the land and sea, helping locals and visitors process the tragedy and reclaim the beach as a place of recreation and reflection.
The incident also prompted discussions about ocean safety and the balance between human activity and marine life. Authorities emphasized the importance of public awareness, encouraging beachgoers to use resources like the NSW SharkSmart app to stay informed about shark activity. The event underscored the need for continued research into shark behavior and the development of technologies like drones and SMART drumlines to mitigate risks without harming marine ecosystems.
Reflections on Ocean Safety
The Tuncurry Beach shark attack serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent risks of ocean activities, even in areas where such incidents are rare. While great white sharks are known to inhabit Australian waters, fatal attacks are uncommon, with most encounters resulting in non-lethal bites driven by curiosity rather than aggression. The use of advanced technologies, such as drones and SMART drumlines, represents a proactive approach to managing these risks, allowing authorities to monitor shark activity and respond effectively to potential threats.
As the community moves forward, the memory of Mark Sanguinetti and the events of May 18, 2021, will continue to influence how beachgoers and authorities approach ocean safety. By combining technology, public education, and respect for marine life, there is hope that such tragedies can be minimized, ensuring that Australia’s beaches remain safe and enjoyable for all.