Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
National
Guardian staff

Western Australia shark attack: surfer reportedly bitten on foot off Gracetown

A shark fin
A surfer has reportedly been attacked by a shark at the North Point surf spot on Western Australia’s south-west. Photograph: Cousteau Society/Getty Images

A surfer has reportedly been attacked by a shark in ocean off the south-west of Western Australia.

A spokesman for the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development said the woman, 46, emerged from the water with a bleeding foot at Cowaramup Bay Beach, Gracetown.

The incident occurred at about 10.30am, Western Australian time. Nearby residents told the ABC an ambulance was seen at the scene.

Surf Life Saving WA teams conducted aerial patrols of the area, which is north of Margaret River and a popular destination for surfers.

Surf Life Saving WA tweeted that a shark had been spotted 50 metres off shore.

The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River has closed the beach since the incident.

“Rangers have closed Cowaramup Bay Beach due to a shark incident. The beach will be closed for 24 hours from Huzza’s Car Park to Cowaramup Boat Ramp. Please adhere to all warnings and signage,” Surf Life Saving WA said.

A St John spokeswoman said the woman had been taken to Margaret River Hospital for treatment.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.