Father of Young Daughter Killed in Shark Attack at Sydney’s Long Reef Beach

SYDNEY, Australia — A tragic shark attack at Long Reef Beach on Saturday has claimed the life of 57-year-old Mercury Psillakis, a beloved father, husband, and experienced surfer, leaving his family and the local community devastated.

Emergency crews rushed to the beach shortly after 10 a.m. following reports of a critical incident in the surf. Despite immediate efforts by paramedics, Psillakis could not be saved and died at the scene.

Witnesses described the attack as both sudden and horrifying. Surfer Mark Morgenthal recalled hearing Psillakis cry out, “I don’t want to get bitten,” before the shark struck. Morgenthal estimated the predator to be about six metres long, noting its large dorsal and tail fins breaking the surface.

Police confirmed Psillakis had entered the water with a group of friends who all managed to make it back to shore safely. Superintendent John Duncan of NSW Police said the victim sustained catastrophic injuries, with multiple limbs lost during the attack.

Authorities have retrieved pieces of Psillakis’ surfboard for examination as part of the investigation. Beaches in the area remain closed as Surf Life Saving NSW deploys drones and rescue teams to monitor for shark activity.

The attack came just one day before Father’s Day, magnifying the heartbreak for Psillakis’ wife and young daughter. “This is a terrible tragedy,” said Steve Pearce, Chief of Surf Life Saving NSW, as the broader community expressed shock and sorrow.

Fatal shark incidents are rare in New South Wales. This is believed to be the first deadly shark attack in the state this year and the first in Sydney since February 2022.

Local surfers and residents are now urging caution while authorities continue to review surveillance footage and collect eyewitness accounts. The incident has also reignited discussions on shark safety and protective measures along Sydney’s coastline.

As the community rallies around the Psillakis family, tributes are pouring in for a man remembered for his passion for surfing and devotion to his family.