The Daily Aus Why are there so many shark attacks right now?
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Jan 20, 2026 Dr. Daryl McPhee, an expert in environmental science from Bond University, delves into the recent surge of shark attacks in Sydney. He explains how environmental factors like heavy rainfall and murky waters are contributing to increased encounters with bull sharks. Daryl discusses the specific shark species involved and emphasizes the low overall risk of swimming, while advocating for short-term safety measures like drone surveillance. He also calls for a shift towards non-lethal deterrents to manage shark populations more effectively.
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This Week's Sydney Incidents
- Three bites in two days happened in Sydney, including two critical hospital cases and a board bitten by a shark.
- A fourth bite occurred on the mid north coast with only grazes, adding to regional concern.
Rising Bites And Better Detection
- Shark bite numbers are rising over decades while detection and reporting have improved.
- Daryl McPhee says this combination partly explains the apparent surge this week.
Bull Sharks In Harbour Months
- White, tiger and bull sharks cause most serious bites; bull sharks are likely in Sydney now.
- Bull sharks favour murky, warmer months and are expected in Sydney Harbour during January–February.