Remarkable recovery: Sydney shark attack survivor thanks supporters

More than two months after a brutal encounter at Coogee Beach, Sydney shark attack survivor Leah Stewart is building independence and seeing light after a lengthy hospital stay that included two weeks in a coma and multiple surgeries.

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Coogee Beach Attack and Medical Recovery

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Coogee Beach Attack and Medical Recovery

The incident occurred on the morning of June 13, 2026, when Stewart was swimming close to shore and within the flags at Coogee Beach. She was targeted by what was believed to be a 3.5-meter great white shark. The attack left the 34-year-old schoolteacher with severe life-threatening injuries, including fractures, extreme blood loss, and bite trauma that necessitated an arm amputation and time on life support.

In an interview with the Nine Network’s 60 Minutes, Stewart recounted coming face-to-face with the shark while her 18-month-old daughter, August, remained on her mind throughout the ordeal.

“It was holding on to my leg. All I was thinking of was August and I thought, she’s not going to have a mum,”

Leah Stewart

“I couldn’t handle that, I didn’t want her not to have a mum.”

Leah Stewart

“Its face was horrific. I will never forget. It was a monster.”

Leah Stewart

Audio recordings from the shore captured the immediate panic after the attack, with a caller telling the Triple Zero operator, Hi, we’ve got a shark attack at Coogee Beach. There’s a lot of blood in the water.

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Fundraiser Closure and Family Update

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Fundraiser Closure and Family Update

Following the attack, Josh Stewart established a GoFundMe campaign to support his sister’s rehabilitation and the care of her daughter. The page ultimately drew more than A$558,000 (NZ$668,000).

On August 24, 2026, Stewart posted an update to the fundraising page announcing that donations would be turned off. She expressed profound gratitude to both acquaintances and strangers who contributed to her family’s stability.

“What you’ve offered has given us enough to recover, to stay in our home, and to give us options for further medical treatment down the road.”

Leah Stewart

“I still have a long way to go, but my recovery has been remarkable, and a huge part of that is because of the absolute army of love, support, prayers and encouragement surrounding my family and I from all over the world.”

Leah Stewart

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Broader Policy Impact in New South Wales

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Broader Policy Impact in New South Wales

The incident at Coogee Beach generated intense public debate across New South Wales regarding ocean safety protocols and marine monitoring. In response to public concern following the attack, NSW Premier Chris Minns announced boosted funding for shark surveillance along regional and metropolitan coastlines.

Stewart continues her physical rehabilitation with the goal of returning to daily routines, reflecting on her survival as a second chance at life that she intends to make the most of.