A surfer has been taken to hospital following a suspected shark bite on the New South Wales Mid North Coast, prompting the immediate closure of several popular beaches.
Surfer Drives Himself to Hospital After Incident
The incident occurred on Tuesday at Point Plomer Beach, located south of Crescent Head. The 39-year-old man was reportedly in the water when he was bitten by what witnesses described as an "animal". Despite the injury, the surfer managed to drive himself to Kempsey District Hospital for treatment.
Medical staff have confirmed the man remains in a stable condition. The nature and severity of his injuries have not been fully disclosed, but his ability to transport himself to medical care suggests he avoided life-threatening wounds.
Beaches Closed as Precautionary Measure
In response to the incident, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has enacted immediate safety measures. As a precaution, authorities have closed all beaches from Queens Head to Big Hill.
This closure affects a significant stretch of coastline popular with locals and tourists, especially surfers. The NPWS is monitoring the situation, and the beaches will remain closed while the incident is investigated and the area is assessed for any ongoing risk.
Community and Safety Response
Attacks and encounters in this region are rare but prompt a swift official response. The closure protocol is a standard procedure aimed at ensuring public safety while details of the incident are clarified.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the species involved but are treating the event as a suspected shark attack. Beachgoers are urged to:
- Heed all closure signs and warnings from lifeguards and NPWS officers.
- Stay informed about the status of beach reopenings through official channels.
- Always swim at patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ocean safety and the protocols in place to protect swimmers and surfers along the Australian coastline.
