Boys applauded for helping friend after shark attack in Australia

A group of boys in Queensland’s Far North have been heralded for their “incredible bravery” after pulling their friend from the water following a shark attack.

The teenage boy, aged 14, was attacked after entering the water off Cook Esplanade, on Thursday Island, about 6:23 p.m. on Saturday.

According to Queensland Police, he suffered “significant abdominal injuries” and was transported to Thursday Island Hospital before later being flown to Townsville.

He remains in the Townsville University Hospital in a life-threatening condition as of Sunday morning.

According to the Torres Shire Council, which covers the northernmost part of Cape York Peninsula and islands of Torres Strait including Thursday Island, the boy was fishing with friends when the attack occurred.

“His friends acted with incredible bravery and quick thinking to help him back to safety,” the Council shared on social media.

Mayor Elsie Seriat said the island’s small community “feels this deeply”.

“This incident is very unfortunate, and our hopes and prayers go out to the boy and his family at this difficult time. Public safety is of paramount importance for Council, and we strongly encourage everyone to be mindful and aware of the dangers in our surrounding waters and to always use good judgment,” she said.

“We know many people are thinking of the young boy, his friends, and their families. Please continue to keep them in your hearts and prayers.

“We want to express our heartfelt thanks to the boys who helped their friend, and to the QAS, QPS, Queensland Health, and RFDS teams for their swift and compassionate response.”

Ms Seriat said Council would look to improve water safety education and signage in the region.

About 2800 people live on Thursday Island as of the 2021 census.