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Family Mourns Surfer Killed at Dee Why as NSW Pauses Shark-Net Trial

Authorities identify a roughly 3.5-metre great white as the likely attacker, prompting intensified surveillance along the Northern Beaches.

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Overview

  • NSW government shark biologists assessed surfboard damage and concluded a white shark about 3.4–3.6 metres likely caused the fatal attack roughly 300 metres north of the surf club at Long Reef/Dee Why.
  • Two additional SMART drumlines were deployed between Dee Why and Long Reef alongside year‑round drumlines, with drones and helicopter patrols added as Long Reef and Dee Why reopened under ongoing monitoring.
  • A tagged white shark later detected off Manly was estimated at 2.5–2.7 metres, smaller than the shark believed responsible, and brief closures were implemented at Manly and Freshwater after alerts on the SharkSmart app.
  • Premier Chris Minns said nets will not be removed as part of the planned trial this summer, while several scientists questioned the effectiveness of nets and drumlines and urged non‑lethal tools such as drones and personal deterrents.
  • Relatives, including twin brother Mike, issued emotional tributes describing Mercury Psillakis as a devoted husband and father who warned fellow surfers to group together before the attack, and the family thanked rescuers and asked for privacy.