Surfer Survives Shark Attack at Cabarita

A dramatic incident unfolded at Cabarita Beach, New South Wales, Australia, when a surfer narrowly escaped a giant great white shark. The five-meter predator attacked and snapped his surfboard in two. Remarkably, the surfer, identified as Brad Ross, survived without serious injuries. The shocking moment quickly went viral after a coastal surveillance camera captured the commotion in the water.

The Attack in the Early Morning

The incident occurred on Monday morning, August 18, 2025, around 7:26 a.m. local time. Cameras overlooking Norries Headland recorded sudden turbulence in the waves. Witnesses said Ross was thrown off his board before swimming back to shore. Minutes later, his surfboard was recovered, split into two pieces with massive bite marks, leaving no doubt about what caused the destruction.

Despite the terrifying encounter, Ross managed to remain calm as he returned safely to the beach. His survival, given the size and force of the predator, has been described as extraordinary.

A Giant Great White in Cabarita Waters

Experts from the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) confirmed that a great white shark was involved. Estimates place its size between four and five meters, equivalent to a family car in length. According to SharkSmart, a state-run monitoring program, a five-meter white shark was captured on a SMART drumline at 9:52 a.m. near the same location and later released back into the ocean.

Authorities have not been able to confirm whether the shark caught was the same one responsible for breaking Ross’s surfboard. However, the close timing and location raised strong concerns among locals and surf lifesaving teams.

Immediate Response and Beach Closure

Following the incident, Surf Life Saving NSW immediately closed Cabarita Beach as a precaution. Warning signs were put in place, and drones were deployed to monitor the waters. Nearby beaches in the Tweed Coast region also came under surveillance to ensure public safety.

The temporary closure reflects heightened caution, especially since less than two months earlier, a 16-year-old surfer was seriously injured by a shark attack in the same area. That previous event had already sparked debate about beach safety and the effectiveness of shark management programs.

Shark Activity and Safety Measures

Cabarita Beach and Norries Headland are popular surf spots but are also known for seasonal spikes in shark activity. The New South Wales government operates a Shark Management Program that includes SMART drumlines, aerial drones, acoustic listening stations, and the SharkSmart mobile app to provide real-time shark alerts.

Authorities advise beachgoers to always check the SharkSmart app before entering the water, avoid surfing when baitfish schools are visible, and stay between the flags on patrolled beaches. These precautions are increasingly emphasized after a series of encounters in northern New South Wales.

A Close Escape That Went Viral

Ross’s narrow escape has been described as both lucky and extraordinary. The viral footage has sparked discussions online about the dangers of surfing in shark-prone waters, as well as admiration for Ross’s composure after such a terrifying moment. While his surfboard was destroyed, the fact that he walked away without injury is being hailed as a miracle among Australia’s surf community.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable risks of the ocean. For now, Cabarita Beach remains under careful watch, with lifeguards and marine experts monitoring for further shark activity.