Hundreds of people gathered at Coogee Beach on Sunday to participate in a community swim in support of Leah Stewart, a young mother who remains in critical condition following a shark attack at the same location last week. Stewart, a teacher, was mauled by a four-metre great white shark on June 18 and has since undergone multiple surgeries, including the amputation of an arm.

Under clear skies, friends, emergency responders, and local residents entered the water near the site of the attack, taking part in a lap of the bay in a collective show of solidarity. The swim was conducted under the surveillance of a patrolling drone, underscoring ongoing safety precautions in the area.

Speaking to the crowd, Coogee Surf Life Saving Club president Ben Heenan read a statement from Stewart’s family describing her as a “survivor” facing a “long, painful and difficult road to recovery.” He emphasized the community’s support as a source of strength for Stewart during her recovery process.

“Leah is a survivor. She draws her strength from the love and care that surrounds her,” Heenan said, relaying the family’s message.

The event also featured remarks from Butterfly Foundation ambassador Isabella Charon, who highlighted the importance of advocacy related to mental health issues, particularly eating disorder awareness among young women. While her comments were separate from the shark attack, she expressed the broader message of resilience and community support.

Model and content creator Uma Dawson also shared her reflections, noting the impact of the public support on her own sense of representation. Dawson, who identifies as Fijian, Indian, and Australian, said the process had encouraged her to embrace the role of representing diverse groups of women.

The gathering at Coogee reflected both a tribute to Stewart’s courage and a reaffirmation of the local community’s close relationship with the ocean, despite the recent tragedy. Authorities continue to monitor shark activity in the area as investigations into the incident remain ongoing.