Karmactive Staff
A regular afternoon swim turned tragic when a shark attacked and killed 17-year-old Charlize Zmuda at Woorim Beach in Queensland. The attack happened close to shore, where swimming groups gather morning and afternoon.
Charlize was captain of the Bribie Island Surf Life Saving Club in 2024 and spent her free time cleaning up the beach. Her parents said she “had the biggest heart” and would help anyone in need.
“There are a lot of swimming groups here, morning and afternoon,” said local resident Christopher Potter. He was shocked that a shark would come so close to the beach. “We know sharks are around Bribie, but an attack this close to shore? That’s surprising.”
The beach had safety measures in place. Drumlines – barrels anchored to the sea floor with baited hooks – are used to catch dangerous sharks that get too close. But on February 3, 2025, around 4:45 PM, these measures weren’t enough. Despite quick action by paramedics, Charlize died from severe injuries shortly after 5 PM.
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This marks the second death by shark in Queensland since December. A month ago, a church pastor died while spearfishing. The last fatal attack in the Greater Brisbane area came in 2006.
More than 100 shark species live in Queensland’s waters. The state government notes that shark bites happen rarely and most shark species do not pose a risk to people. Experts haven’t yet identified which type of shark was involved in this attack.
The incident has shaken the local swimming community. Charlize was in her final year of high school and had just celebrated at her school formal. Friends remember her four-wheel driving along the beach, always stopping to pick up litter.
Local authorities have closed Woorim Beach while they investigate. Police are preparing a detailed report to understand what happened and how to prevent similar tragedies.
