A shark attack at Woorim Beach on Bribie Island, Queensland, Australia, tragically took the life of 17-year-old surf lifesaving champion, Charlize Zmuda. She was about 328 feet from shore when the incident occurred on Monday, February 3, 2025, around 5 p.m. The beach is a popular tourist spot approximately 50 miles north of Brisbane.

Emergency services arrived quickly on the scene following reports of a severe shark bite. Despite the best efforts of first responders, Zmuda succumbed to extreme upper-body injuries. “The female was swimming when she was bitten by a shark … the female sustained life-threatening injuries and succumbed to those injuries,” confirmed a police spokesperson via email.

Zmuda had been a significant part of Australia’s celebrated surf lifesaving tradition for nearly ten years. This unique system differentiates between volunteer surf lifesavers, recognized by their distinctive red and yellow uniforms, and professional lifeguards who wear blue or white uniforms and ensure beach safety daily.

At just eight years old, Zmuda joined the Bribie Island Surf Life Saving Club and eventually ascended to the role of vice-captain of her patrol. Some of her notable achievements include participation in the Inflatable Rescue Boat World Championships. Aside from her water rescue expertise, she was also a talented musician who inspired younger club members.

The attack occurred despite existing shark control measures, such as baited drum lines and drone surveillance. Local resident Christopher Potter, who is familiar with the beach’s swimming groups, commented, “It’s known there are a lot of sharks around Bribie, but this close to shore, it’s still a shock.”

Zmuda’s death sent shockwaves through Australia’s lifesaving community. Over a thousand people gathered at Woorim Beach for a memorial service, bringing flowers and balloons to pay tribute to her memory. Her family expressed their wish for people to continue enjoying the beach, emphasizing its significance in their lives and the broader community.

Local and state officials quickly responded to the tragedy. Moreton Bay mayor Peter Flannery offered condolences, while Queensland state MP Ariana Doolan requested privacy for the grieving family. The CEO of Surf Life Saving Queensland described the loss as “shocking and confronting,” acknowledging its profound impact on lifesavers nationwide.

This is Australia’s third fatal shark incident in just over five weeks, following the deaths of surfer Lance Appleby in January 2025 and youth pastor Luke Walford in December 2024, who was killed while fishing with family. While authorities have not identified the species responsible for Zmuda’s death, historical data indicates that white, bull, and tiger sharks are typically accountable for serious attacks in Australian waters.

With this incident, Australia’s long history of shark incidents continues—the Australian Shark-Incident Database documents over 1,200 attacks since 1791, including more than 250 fatalities. Recent statistics show an average of 20 shark-related injuries annually over the past decade. Despite preventative measures like drumlines for shark population control at Woorim Beach, its open waters present ongoing safety challenges.

The beach is currently closed for an indefinite period, with authorities implementing enhanced surveillance measures. This closure affects both recreational swimming and the essential training and patrol activities of the surf lifesaving community.