Rainy-season surge puts Sydney beaches in shark spotlight

A spate of four shark bites in 48 hours along eastern Australia—three near Sydney and a fatality in Sydney Harbour—has been linked to heavy rains that flushed freshwater into coastal waters, drawing bull sharks and baitfish. Experts say the incidents reflect environmental and reporting factors rather than increased aggression, discourage culls, and stress practical safety measures like avoiding swimming after rain and staying aware of beach warnings.