Are There Shark Attacks on Australia's Gold Coast?

World-class, sand-bottom point breaks line this 35-mile-long stretch of Australian coastline, with boardshorts being the only clothing requirement during peak summer months: the Gold Coast.

But there is a growing fear looming in the back of your mind. The apex predators of the ocean, the ever-ominous, ancient creatures known as sharks.

Or, as the Aussies say, the “Men in Grey Suits.” 

Sharks have ruled the sea for millions of years, and their presence has indeed been long felt in the “land down under.” 

How Many Shark Attacks Happen in Gold Coast? 

A hotspot for surf travel, the Gold Coast has been home to its fair share of shark run-ins. 

In September of 2020, the Gold Coast witnessed its second fatal shark attack in the past 70 years. Nick Slater, an Australian real estate agent, father, and avid surfer, tragically lost his life at Greenmount Beach.

The attack was suspected to be caused by a great white. Before this, the last shark attack on the Gold Coast beaches came in 2012 at Nobby Beach, this time from a bull shark. Prior to these attacks, the last fatality had been in 1958. 

Over the last summer, a teenage boy was attacked at Cabarita Beach, a quick 30-minute drive from the Gold Coast. Fortunately, the victim was carried to safety by nearby surfers and treated by emergency medical services.

He received further assistance for bites to his arm and leg at the Gold Coast University Hospital. 

What Kind of Sharks Live/Migrate in Gold Coast? 

There are more than 100 shark species that inhabit Queensland. Over 50 species are commonly found on the Gold Coast.

The exact number of these apex predators is unknown. That being said, recent preventative measures, such as shark nets, have led to a decrease in population species-wide. 

There are three key species that dominate these crystal-clear Australian waters. Tiger sharks, bull sharks, and white sharks are well known by the public, potentially due to their larger size and thus easier detectability, or perhaps due to the fear these creatures instill in our minds. 

However, on a day-to-day basis you’re far more likely to have a run-in with sharks on the smaller end of the scale, such as leopard sharks, guitar sharks, and wobbegong sharks. 

Sightings won’t be going down anytime soon, as these sharks will continue moving in and around the sandbanks that litter the Goldy and offer a perfect hunting ground.

What Months are Sharks Most Active in Gold Coast? 

Recent data shows that 71 percent of shark attacks in Australian waters occur between November and April. These summer months coincide not only with warmer waters but also with an influx of beachgoers as schools break and coastal recreation increases. Additionally, summer is whale migration season, presenting a key food source for great white, tiger, and bull sharks. 

Dusk and dawn present optimal hunting times for sharks, particularly great whites. The limited lighting provides an opportunity for these carnivorous predators to target unsuspecting seals, and, at times, humans. So, for those planning an early morning surf or a post-work swim, tread carefully. 

How to Protect Yourself From a Shark Attack in Gold Coast 

The only way to guarantee avoiding a shark run-in on the Gold Coast is staying out of the water altogether.

However, for visitors and locals alike, that tends to be an impractical, almost comical, ask. 

Avoiding the water early in the morning and late in the evening would prove to be the next best shark deterrent.

Staying away from murky waters, such as rivermouths, would also be a smart decision. 

The use of specific surf accessories, such as striped leashes and shark shields, have also been utilized in an attempt to mitigate shark run-ins. If surfing an isolated break, make an effort to bring a buddy—just make sure you can paddle faster than they can. All joking aside, a friend can be there to help if things go wrong. 

And, if you do find yourself up close and personal with the top of the ocean’s food chain, attempt to strike its eyes and gills. These are the weakest and most sensitive parts of a shark's body, and a proper punch will, hopefully, send them swimming the opposite direction. Just ask Mick Fanning. 

What To Do if you Witness a Shark Attack on the Gold Coast 

If you happen to witness an attack, your first step should always be to call for help. Whether it be a lifeguard or nearby swimmer, the more assistance, the better. 

Obviously, recklessly entering the water with an aggressive shark is potentially dangerous. Be cautious, and, if it can be managed, enter the water once the shark has departed the surrounding area to help the victim. Of course, sometimes you are already in the water and you may be all that can stop a fatality by helping get someone to shore as soon as possible. 

If you come in contact with an individual who has suffered a serious shark wound, the use of a surf leash as a tourniquet is proven to be helpful in limiting blood loss. A surfboard can also be put to use as a stretcher to help carry a shark-bite victim to safety.

Conclusion

When it comes to avoiding the apex predators of the Goldie, awareness is the name of the game. Check in with lifeguards, acknowledge recent sightings, and always be alert in the water. 

To curb stress, one can always surf with one friend or hundreds—an easy task given that the Gold Coast maintains some of the most crowded surf breaks year-round. 

Now get out there and enjoy some of the finest waves Australia has to offer!