In shark attack, 59-year-old Australian tourist dies off New Caledonia

A tourist from Australia has been killed after being attacked by a shark in the waters off New Caledonia in the South Pacific, media reports said.

The incident happened around 4 p.m. local time on Sunday when the 59-year-old man was swimming near a pontoon at Château-Royal beach in the capital Nouméa, the public broadcaster New Caledonia 1 TV reported.

The victim was rescued on a jet-ski by two people. CPR was also performed, but the victim didn’t survive, the New Caledonia 1 report said.


The authorities have closed beaches in Nouméa in wake of the incident. The place is a popular destination among international tourists in the French overseas territory.

In a statement, Nouméa City Council, said, “Swimming and nautical activities are closed in a 300-meter coastal band until further notice.”

After the attack, a culling of sharks was also activated, according to the broadcaster. In less than a month, this is the second attack at the same location.

A 49-year-old woman had suffered many injuries in late January after being attacked by a bull shark while swimming at Château-Royal beach, as per the Global Shark Attack File.


After that attack, the nearby beaches were closed. They were reopened only last Thursday, as per local media reports.

Nouméa, which is known for its idyllic beaches and clear blue water, is frequented by many international visitors. The number had dropped during the pandemic, as per World Bank data.

The tourism website of New Caledonia also warns visitors to be aware of sharks. They are also advised to swim only in monitored areas, where authorities monitor shark alerts and carry out patrols.

FAQs:

1. Who is the mayor of Nouméa?
   Sonia Lagarde.
2. What are some popular beaches in New Caledonia?
   Piscine Naturelle, Baie des Citrons, Îlot Maître, Île aux Canards and Amédée Beach are some popular beaches in New Caledonia.