Sydney Surfer Mercury Psillakis Dies in Shark Attack: Full Story

Sydney, September 6, 2025 – The surfing community in northern Sydney is mourning the tragic death of 57-year-old Mercury Psillakis, who was fatally attacked by a shark at Long Reef Beach near Dee Why on Saturday morning.

The incident has shocked locals and raised fresh concerns about shark safety along Sydney’s northern beaches.

Who Was Mercury Psillakis?

Mercury Psillakis, known as “Merc” to friends, was a much-loved member of the Dee Why community. Together with his identical twin brother, Mike Psillakis, he was a familiar face in the surf scene and was known for his warm and welcoming nature.

Mercury often took part in community events and had recently helped organize a paddle-out ceremony in memory of a fellow surfer. His death, coming just a day before Father’s Day in Australia, has left family and friends heartbroken.

How the Attack Happened

The shark attack occurred around 10 a.m. on September 6. Witnesses reported seeing a large shark strike Mercury while he was surfing. Other surfers bravely pulled him from the water before emergency services arrived.

Despite urgent medical efforts, he could not be revived due to catastrophic injuries, including the loss of limbs.

Beaches Closed as Authorities Investigate

Following the incident, authorities ordered the closure of beaches from Manly to Narrabeen as a safety measure.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and police are investigating the attack to identify the shark species and assess next steps. This marks the second fatal shark attack in Sydney within recent years, prompting renewed debate about shark control measures and beach safety.

Mercury Psillakis Wife, Children & Community Grieves a Beloved Figure

Friends, surfers, and neighbors have gathered at Dee Why to pay their respects. Mercury leaves behind his wife, young daughter, and his twin brother Mike, who runs Psillakis Surfboards.

Locals describe him as a kind, generous man who had a passion for the ocean and community spirit.

🇦🇺
Tragedia en las playas del norte de Sídney: Mercury Psillakis, surfista de 57 años🏄‍♂️, murió tras ser atacado por un tiburón en Long Reef Beach, cerca de Dee Why 🦈
🩸El animal le causó heridas catastróficas pese a que otros surfistas lo ayudaron
🏖️🛑Playas de Manly a Narrabeen… pic.twitter.com/oc9sfOESMW

— Sonar 360 (@Sonar360) September 6, 2025

Quick Facts

• Victim: Mercury Psillakis, 57

• Location: Long Reef Beach, Dee Why, Sydney

• Date & Time: Saturday, September 6, 2025, around 10 a.m.

• Injuries: Catastrophic, multiple limbs lost

• Response: Surfers and paramedics attempted rescue

• Beaches Closed: From Manly to Narrabeen

• Family: Survived by wife, daughter, and twin brother