Surfer survives shark attack while riding at Cabarita beach

In New South Wales, Australia, a dramatic incident unfolded at Cabarita Beach where a surfer's board was bitten in half by a suspected great white shark. The occurrence took place in the early hours of Monday, August 18, 2025, around 7:30 a.m. Fortunately, the surfer managed to return safely to the shore without sustaining any injuries. The Tweed Shire Council responded promptly, imposing a temporary closure of the beach to ensure the safety of other beachgoers. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present in open waters, especially in areas previously known for shark encounters, like Cabarita Beach. Just a few weeks earlier, a young boy had experienced a shark bite in the same waters, which raised concerns among local authorities regarding the safety of surfers and swimmers in this popular location. The subsequent media attention highlighted the gripping moment captured on local beach cameras showing the dramatic scene where water exploded due to the shark’s assault on the surfboard. Eyewitnesses reported an astonishing scenario where part of the board was sent in one direction while the surfer remained intact. Despite the terrifying encounter, the surfer exhibited remarkable composure in highlighting the importance of surfboards as a protective barrier against such marine threats. With social media shrieking in disbelief, Kelly Slater, a legendary figure in the surfing world, expressed his relief and commended the surfer's fortunate escape on Instagram, reiterating the risks associated with ocean activities. The council collaborated promptly with the Australian Lifeguard Service, which worked diligently to notify the public of the potential dangers through signage and drone surveillance efforts. Operative measures like these reflect the ongoing commitment to safety in wake of recent shark-related incidents in the region.