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05th Sep 2021

Man dies following shark attack in Australia

Sarah McKenna Barry

It’s the second fatal shark attack to take place in Australian waters this year.

A man in his 20s has died after being fatally attacked by a shark at a beach in Australia.

According to paramedics, the attack took place at Emerald Beach near Coffs Harbour, which is six hours north of Sydney.

While emergency crews, paramedics and a medical helicopter were on the way, local surfers and bystanders attempted to save the man.

New South Wales Ambulance inspector Chris Hughes described the citizens who tried to save the young man’s life as “incredibly brave in a very challenging situation.”

Mr Wilson said: “It was devastating for everybody on the beach this morning.

“The patient suffered a critical injury to his arm, but despite the best efforts of bystanders, paramedics and other emergency services, the patient couldn’t be saved.”

The beach and the surrounding waters are now closed to the public.

A Facebook post from the the Coffs Harbour Lifeguards service said: “Our sympathies go out to family and friends. Please don’t enter the water in the area.”

According to the Taronga Conservation Society in Australia, this is the second fatal shark attack to take place in Australian waters this year.