Leah Stewart, a 34-year-old mother, was attacked by a shark at Sydney's Coogee Beach on 13 June 2026 during a morning swim. The encounter left her with multiple bites to her arms and legs, resulting in the amputation of one arm and placement in an induced coma. More than two months after the incident, Stewart has shared an emotional update expressing gratitude for her survival and determination to move forward.
In a statement posted on Monday, 24 August 2026, Stewart reflected on her recovery journey, describing it as
"incredibly difficult"yet marked by
"remarkable"progress. She emphasised her resolve to make the most of what she views as a fresh start, writing:
"I feel like I've been given a second chance at life, and I'm not going to waste it."
The attack occurred amid a concerning pattern of shark incidents across Australia during 2026. According to local reporting, the suspected shark was approximately 3.5 metres in length. The incident prompted immediate beach closures across Sydney's eastern suburbs and sparked discussions about enhanced safety measures, including low-altitude drone surveillance over Coogee Beach.
How has Stewart's recovery progressed?
Stewart underwent multiple surgeries following the attack and spent an extended period in critical condition. According to reports from late June, she had regained consciousness and was able to recall the attack in detail, marking a significant milestone in her recovery. By late August, she had progressed sufficiently to establish greater independence and begin planning her rehabilitation at home.
An online fundraiser established to support her medical care and recovery has raised more than AU$550,000 (US$394,000; £289,000). Stewart announced that the fundraiser would now close, with the collected funds enabling her to recover at home and explore
"options for further medical treatment down the road."She expressed profound gratitude for the backing she received, stating:
"I've been 'overwhelmed' by the support from family, friends and 'even strangers', adding that the 'you've inspired me to get better, not bitter'."
What does Stewart remember about the attack?
In an interview with Nine Network's 60 Minutes programme, scheduled to air on 30 August 2026, Stewart provided a harrowing account of her encounter with the shark. She described the animal's appearance in stark terms, saying:
"I'll never forget its face - it was a monster."
During the interview, Stewart revealed that her thoughts immediately turned to her daughter, August, as she fought for survival.
"It was holding onto my leg and I just thought of (my daughter) August, and I thought, 'she's not going to have a mum. She's gonna grow up without a mum'."This maternal instinct drove her determination to resist the attack. She continued:
"I couldn't handle that, I didn't want her to not have a mum. I just thought, I've got to fight it, do everything I can to be here."
What is the broader context of shark attacks in Australia?
Stewart's attack formed part of a troubling escalation in shark incidents across Australia in 2026. In January, four attacks occurred over a two-day period, including one on a 12-year-old boy who subsequently died from his injuries. In May, a man was killed by a shark in Queensland while spearfishing. Western Australia also recorded a fatal attack when a father-of-two was struck by a 4-metre shark.
The string of incidents has reignited debate about shark management strategies and beach safety protocols. According to reporting from late June, the Coogee attack prompted community responses and broader discussions about protective measures in New South Wales waters.
What comes next for Stewart?
Stewart's full account of her experience will be broadcast on Nine's 60 Minutes on Sunday, 30 August 2026. The interview represents her first comprehensive public discussion of the attack and her recovery since the incident. She has signalled her commitment to rebuilding her life and continuing her rehabilitation journey with the support of her family and the wider community.
