Local authorities in Sydney's eastern suburbs have begun removing large public banners featuring sharks, following a recent shark attack at Coogee Beach that left teacher Leah Stewart injured. The banners, which were part of Randwick Council’s “Love the Locals” campaign, depict sharks as “gentle giants” and were created by local artist Anthea Ben-Naim. They had been displayed intermittently since 2024 and most recently reinstalled about two weeks ago near Clovelly.

The decision to take down the banners came after community concerns arose in the wake of Saturday’s incident involving a white shark. Randwick Council acknowledged the sensitivity surrounding the attack and confirmed the removal of the shark-themed displays. A council spokesperson noted that the species featured is the critically endangered grey nurse shark, which is not considered dangerous to humans. Nonetheless, given public reaction, the banners will be replaced with images of a different marine animal.

Liberal councillor Carolyn Martin expressed support for the removal and indicated a preference for the shark banners to remain off public display. The council’s prompt response aims to balance awareness of local wildlife with public safety concerns heightened by the recent mauling. The area continues to manage community sentiment as beachgoers and residents adjust to increased caution following the attack.