Twelve-year-old Nico Antic is still in a very serious condition following a shark bite while swimming at a beach within Sydney’s Vaucluse harbor. He sustained catastrophic injuries in the crash. On January 18, 2026, the crash occurred. Today, his family contends with an indescribable grief and wait in disbelief for news from an operating room as they expect the worst.
The dramatic onshore Shark attack occurred close to Shark Beach at Nielsen Park, where 17-year-old Nico was bitten in both legs. He received prompt emergency treatment from doctors, but soon his condition deteriorated resulting in his admission to Sydney Children Hospital Randwick. Since that day, he has been in intensive care, as doctors try to stabilize his injuries.
In response to the family’s urgent needs during this challenging time, a GoFundMe page was established, quickly gaining support from the community. By late Wednesday morning, the campaign had raised over $100,000, showcasing the outpouring of empathy and assistance from friends and strangers alike.
“We are raising funds to help the Antic family cover upcoming expenses and related arrangements during this incredibly difficult time. Any contribution, no matter the size, would be deeply appreciated and will help ease the financial burden as they grieve.” – Victor Piñeiro
Nico’s condition has left his family devastated. Close friend Victor Piñeiro expressed the gravity of the situation, stating that despite all efforts, “this heartbreaking event has led to the worst possible outcome.” The emotional impact on their family has been huge, though, as they’ve lived day to day with uncertainty and fear for Nico’s future.
Kate Barley, who experienced a similar tragedy when she lost her son Khai in a shark attack, reached out to offer her support. She emphasized her empathy with the Nico family as they navigate this extremely painful process.
“From one mum to another, my heart is holding you so tightly,” – Kate Barley
The victim of this shark attack, unfortunately, isn’t the only one in a string of shark interactions within New South Wales’ coast in recent weeks. Experts speculate that intense rainfall over the preceding weekend may have contributed to heightened shark activity by flushing contaminated water into coastal areas. This ecological change would have made waters nearer to shore very appealing to sharks.
Shark Beach was closed to swimmers in the wake of the attack, but swimming was permitted within certain enclosed enclosures. Local community members have voiced concern as they try to resume life above water. Truls Leren expressed a desire to use the enclosure rather than crossing into angry waters.
“Here I feel safe. We were thinking of going to Shelley beach today but I said no – I want to use the enclosure,” – Truls Leren
As communities across North America are pulled together to support Nico’s family, many are sitting in the water thinking about safety. Beachgoer Bev told us about her fears of getting back in the ocean after experiencing a near drowning like that.
“Right now, I don’t know when I’m going to swim in the ocean again, which I’m very sad about. It’s awful; I feel very heartbroken,” – Bev
Sadness and fear definitely surround the conversations around ocean safety. Sentiments differ when it comes to sharks. For those who prioritize human safety, some suggest that culling should be considered a last-resort measure for ensuring safety.
“Do I feel we should cull these sharks? It’s their environment,” – Bev
Tim Clarke, another frequent visitor to the area, expressed surprise at the lack of visibility in the water during recent visits.
“I couldn’t see more than 3ft ahead,” – Tim Clarke
In this neighborhood, Clarke often personally doesn’t feel safe. He hardly ever challenges the netting that’s meant to keep out the bigger sharks.
“I come here every few days and can normally see the bottom. I didn’t question the net; I don’t think there has ever been a large shark in it. I’d say it’s 98% safe,” – Tim Clarke
As Nico’s family still hopes for good news about his recovery, support from the community is overwhelming. To learn more about the GoFundMe effort and how to help, visit their new home online. Every dollar of the proceeds will be applied directly to relieving the current financial burden on the Antic family.