🦈 Shark Sighting Shuts Down Dee Why Beach

Dee Why Beach was temporarily closed on Friday morning, March 21, 2026, after a shark was sighted off the coast. The alert came from the NSW SharkSmart program, with Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW) drones spotting the marine animal at approximately 11:29 am.

Following the sighting, SLSNSW advised that the water be evacuated, and the beach was subsequently closed to the public. The incident highlights the ongoing efforts to monitor shark activity along Sydney's northern beaches.

According to the NSW Department of Primary Industries, SharkSmart is a program designed to provide the public with real-time information on shark activity, including sightings, tagged shark detections, and drumline operations. While shark sightings are not uncommon in the area, beach closures are implemented as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety.

The SharkSmart website also provides data on shark behaviour and advice on how beachgoers can minimise their risk. Further information on shark safety can be found on the official SharkSmart NSW website: Shark Activity | NSW SharkSmart.