Nearly a year after Mercury Psillakis was fatally attacked by a great white shark while surfing off Sydney’s Northern Beaches, his family is preparing to mark the anniversary of his death under a cloud of grief.

The 57-year-old father died last year near Dee Why, a popular surfing area, where the shark incident occurred. On Sunday, his sister, Eleni Psillakis, spoke about the emotional toll the upcoming day will take on her and their family. The remembrance coincides not only with the date of his passing but also with Father’s Day and her own daughter’s birthday, compounding the complexity of their feelings.

“Every day is tough, every milestone is tough and this one is going to be especially difficult,” Ms. Psillakis said in an interview. She noted that her daughter had even asked if she could change her birthday, reflecting the extent to which the family is affected by the loss.

Ms. Psillakis recalled her brother as a warm, outgoing person who would greet fellow beachgoers with a wave as he enjoyed surfing. His death has left a profound void for loved ones, who continue to grapple with the sudden tragedy.

Authorities have investigated the incident and increased monitoring of great white shark activity in the area since the fatal attack, which remains a rare but stark reminder of the risks associated with ocean activities in the region. Meanwhile, the Psillakis family prepares to honour Mercury’s memory, confronting the emotional challenges of the anniversary as they seek healing and remembrance.