A 35-year-old teacher and mother was critically injured in a shark attack off Coogee Beach, Sydney, on Saturday morning. Leah Stewart, described by family and friends as a loving and dedicated mother as well as a passionate teacher, was swimming laps between the flags while on maternity leave when she was bitten multiple times by a great white shark. The incident resulted in severe injuries that necessitated the amputation of her arm.

Ms. Stewart, who is also known locally for her environmental advocacy regarding ocean health, was accompanied at the beach by friends caring for her infant daughter, born last year. Eyewitnesses reported hearing screams as the estimated four-meter shark attacked, dragging Ms. Stewart underwater before releasing her. A surf lifesaver was able to rescue her by paddling her to shore, where she received emergency medical attention.

She was transported to Sydney’s St Vincent’s Hospital, where she remains in critical but stable condition. Medical teams have performed multiple surgeries to manage extensive injuries, which include severe cuts to her arms and legs, fractures, and significant blood loss. Further surgeries and ongoing treatment are expected as part of her recovery process.

The attack has left Ms. Stewart’s family and the close-knit Coogee community in shock. Her partner, Fernando, returned from attending the FIFA World Cup in Canada to be by her side. The family released a statement expressing their devastation and gratitude toward the lifesavers, first responders, medical staff, and community members who have supported them. They emphasized the serious nature of Ms. Stewart’s injuries and the need for continued care and rehabilitation.

A fundraising campaign launched by the family to assist with medical costs, rehabilitation, prosthetics, and care for Ms. Stewart’s daughter has raised over $150,000 from more than 2,200 donors. The initial fundraising goal of $110,000 was increased to $250,000 to accommodate ongoing needs.

Ms. Stewart has lived in Coogee for approximately five years and is an experienced swimmer, having previously participated in the Coogee Island Challenge in 2024. The attack has renewed attention on shark encounters in the area and the broader challenges of balancing ocean safety with conservation efforts.