Accidents

Sydney Shark Attack Victim Briefly Wakes From Coma

Should NSW expand drone surveillance to prevent shark attacks or cull sharks to protect swimmers?

Published JUN 24

Sydney Shark Attack Victim Briefly Wakes From Coma

story

Above: A beach closed sign is displayed at Coogee Beach in Sydney, Australia, on June 13. Image credit: Oliver Hotham/AFP/Getty Images

The Spin

Narrative A

Above all, Leah Stewart's recovery is nothing short of extraordinary. Waking from an induced coma to say "I love you" after five days of surgery and arm amputation is a testament to her strength. Her family called it a "miracle," and that word fits. With more procedures ahead, this first step gives real hope that a 34-year-old mum and teacher can find her way back to her daughter, August.

Nine

Government-critical narrative

Leah Stewart lost an arm and nearly lost her life, yet politicians like Premier Minns still seem more concerned with protecting sharks than protecting families. After a string of attacks and deaths, beachgoers deserve more than drones and promises. Reopen commercial shark fisheries, remove dangerous sharks from popular swimming areas, and put people before sharks before another parent, child, or surfer pays the price.

Tony Abbott on Facebook

Sky News Australia on Youtube

Pro-government narrative

Shark culls are a feel-good non-solution that marine biologists say would actually make beaches more dangerous by attracting sharks closer to shore. Expanding drone surveillance across more NSW beaches is the smart, science-backed move, and Premier Minns is right to push world-leading drone technology instead of targeting protected migratory species that no cull could meaningfully reduce.

ABC Australia Sky News Australia