Bodyboarder Bitten at Pyramids Beach, Mandurah

On December 1, 2024, a shark bite incident occurred at Pyramids Beach in Mandurah, Western Australia, involving a male bodyboarder. At approximately 5:30 a.m., the victim was in the water on his bodyboard with a companion when a shark, estimated at 2 meters in length, attacked him. The shark seized his lower left leg and attempted to pull him underwater. The victim responded by stomping the shark with his free leg until the animal released its grip. He and his friend then swam to nearby rocks to reach safety. The attack resulted in four deep puncture wounds and lacerations to the victim's lower left calf. Emergency services responded promptly, and first aid was administered at the Port Bouvard Surf Club before the victim was airlifted by helicopter to Royal Perth Hospital for surgical treatment. Medical personnel expected a full recovery. Following the incident, Western Australian authorities implemented enhanced safety protocols at Mandurah's beaches, including increased drone and Jet Ski patrols during surfing events. Additional preventative measures were discussed, including the installation of SMART drumlines at nearby beaches such as Gracetown, subsidized shark shield device programs, and swimming enclosures. Fisheries WA issued warnings to the public to exercise caution at affected locations, and a community meeting was scheduled to address resident concerns about shark safety in the region.