Sydney surfer Mercury Psillakis killed in tragic shark attack
It was a shocking and heartbreaking scene on Sydney’s Northern Beaches this weekend, where well-known local surfer Mercury Psillakis lost his life in a fatal shark attack. Authorities have confirmed that the incident occurred at Long Reef Beach, just off Dee Why, when Psillakis, who was 57 years old, was struck while out in the water on Saturday morning.
Government scientists examined photographs of his surfboard and concluded that the attacker was most likely a white shark, estimated to be between 3.4 and 3.6 metres long. His surfboard was found in two pieces, and police later confirmed that he had suffered catastrophic injuries. Psillakis was pulled from the water missing multiple limbs, a devastating discovery made only hours before Father’s Day, leaving behind his wife and daughter.
Also Read:For the local community, the news was not only tragic but deeply personal. Psillakis wasn’t just any surfer—he was a lifelong resident, a father, a husband, and a beloved figure in the surfing fraternity. Alongside his twin brother Mike, he had been part of the Long Reef Boardriders club since the 1980s, and the two had once shared a club champion title. He was seen as a cornerstone of the community, described by many as generous and passionate about both surfing and mentoring others.
Eyewitnesses and fellow surfers have since shared accounts of Psillakis’ final moments. It has been said that he spotted the shark and urged others nearby to huddle together and paddle toward shore. By placing himself slightly further out, he effectively put himself in harm’s way. For some, this was seen as an act of bravery that possibly saved lives. Kevin Young, whose own son died in a shark attack in 2013, described Psillakis as a hero, saying his actions in that critical moment mattered more than anything else.
The attack has sparked renewed debate about shark management along the New South Wales coastline. Just a week earlier, shark nets had been installed at Dee Why and fifty other beaches from Newcastle down to Wollongong. The fact that this tragedy occurred inside a netted area has raised questions about their effectiveness. Some locals admitted they had been critical of nets before, worrying about the damage they caused to marine life, but are now reconsidering. Others insist the nets don’t work and call for alternatives like tagging, tracking, and drone surveillance.
In the aftermath, Long Reef and Dee Why beaches were closed, with Surf Life Saving NSW monitoring the waters by drone and helicopter. The state government has increased the number of smart drumlines in the area in an effort to prevent further incidents. Still, Premier Chris Minns has paused a planned trial to remove shark nets until a full investigation into this attack is complete.
For many in the community, the tragedy is a painful reminder of the risks that come with entering the ocean, yet also a moment to honor a man remembered for his courage, love of the sea, and devotion to family and friends. Though shark attacks remain rare, this one has left a lasting mark on Sydney’s northern beaches and on all who knew Mercury Psillakis.
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