Teen dies in Queensland shark attack at Woorim Beach

A 17-year-old girl was fatally attacked by a shark while swimming at Woorim Beach in Queensland, prompting authorities to close the area.

Photo illustration by Julia Hermann/Getty Images

By Widya Putri and Nada Fadiyah

A teenage girl died on Monday after being attacked by a shark while swimming at Woorim Beach, a popular surf spot in Queensland on Australia’s eastern coast. Authorities confirmed that 17-year-old Charlize Zmuda was bitten just before 5 p.m., suffering fatal injuries despite paramedics’ efforts to save her.

Queensland Ambulance Service stated that Zmuda sustained "life-threatening upper body injuries" and succumbed to her wounds on the beach. Police have launched an investigation and will prepare a report for the coroner.

Skilled swimmer and lifeguard lost in rare attack

Zmuda, a student and experienced swimmer, had spent years in the water along Queensland’s coastline. As a dedicated lifeguard with Surf Life Saving Queensland, she played an active role in beach safety, leading patrols and volunteering in programs that taught ocean rescue skills to children.

Her family described her as a passionate beachgoer who loved four-wheel-driving along the shore and had a deep commitment to environmental conservation. “She loved the beach, and it truly was her happiest place on earth,” they said in a statement. “Anyone who went with her knew they would have to stop and pick up every piece of rubbish she saw along the way.”

Woorim Beach closed as authorities investigate

Following the attack, authorities closed Woorim Beach until further notice. It remains unclear what type of shark was responsible. Queensland police and Surf Life Saving Queensland have advised beachgoers to avoid the area while investigations continue.

Woorim Beach, located about 45 miles north of Brisbane, is one of many along the Queensland coastline equipped with drumlines—buoys and baited hooks designed to monitor and manage shark populations. Despite such measures, experts note that shark encounters, though rare, are an inherent risk of ocean swimming.

Dave Whimpey, CEO of Surf Life Saving Queensland, called the attack “shocking and confronting news” and said it had deeply affected Australia’s lifesaving community. “A strong swimmer, a skilled lifesaver, and someone who knew the ocean well—yet nothing could have prepared her, her family, or any of us for what happened,” her local swim club wrote in a social media tribute, calling her death a “cruel and unfathomable twist of fate.”

Australia’s history of shark encounters

While Australia is known for its high number of shark encounters, fatal attacks remain uncommon. According to the Taronga Conservation Society Australia, which tracks such incidents, the country sees about 20 shark encounters annually where people are injured.

In 2024 alone, there have been at least four recorded shark attacks, including a fatal December incident in which a 40-year-old man was killed while spearfishing off the Central Queensland coast. In July, a surfer off the coast of New South Wales survived an attack by a great white shark but lost his leg.

Despite such incidents, experts emphasize that the risk of a fatal shark attack remains extremely low compared to other dangers in the ocean.

Community mourns as thousands pay tribute

The loss of Charlize Zmuda has sent shockwaves through her community. Thousands gathered on Tuesday for a tribute in her honor, remembering her as a dedicated lifesaver, musician, and friend.

Her father, Steve Zmuda, expressed gratitude for the support and urged people not to let fear keep them from the ocean. “It’s a big part of our lives,” he said.

As Queensland officials continue to investigate, the tragedy serves as a reminder of both the beauty and unpredictability of the sea.