Shark attack survivor leads effort for emergency shark-bite kits at Aussie beaches

A New South Wales surfer attacked by a great white in July 2024 survived but lost a leg, and a friend has organised Community SBK shark-bite kits to be installed at local beaches, funded by donations and attracting wider interest.

A surfer from Bonny Hills on the New South Wales coast was attacked by a great white at North Shore Beach on July 23, 2024. He survived but lost a leg and spent time in hospital before later returning to the ocean. A friend, Danny Schouten, was moved by how a trained passer-by used a makeshift tourniquet at the scene and set out to make lifesaving supplies more accessible. Schouten developed and began installing Community SBK shark-bite kits at local beaches and has sought donations and volunteer help to expand the programme. Key facts: - The attack took place on July 23, 2024, at North Shore Beach near Port Macquarie; the surfer survived with a major leg injury. - A retired off-duty police officer who reached the shore used a dog lead as a makeshift tourniquet to control bleeding until emergency services arrived. - Community SBK kits were created in response and are stocked with items such as a tourniquet, compression bandages, dressings, an emergency thermal blanket, a whistle, gloves and an easy-to-read instruction card. - Schouten has donated and installed multiple kits locally, raised funds through a GoFundMe campaign, enlisted volunteers, and has had preliminary discussions with a NSW government department about supplying larger numbers. Summary: The Community SBK initiative aims to place basic life‑saving supplies in visible, accessible spots near the shore so they are available quickly if needed. The project has grown from a single kit to several local installations and rising demand, supported by donations and volunteers. Preliminary talks with a NSW government department have occurred, and the next formal steps are undetermined at this time.