Coogee mother, teacher and ocean advocate Leah Stewart remains on life support after a shark attack at Coogee Beach, as her family and community focus on the long recovery ahead.
Leah Stewart’s Recovery at Centre of Coogee Support
Leah Stewart has long been connected to the ocean, not only as a swimmer but as a Coogee local known for her care for cleaner waterways and healthier seas.
Now, the 34-year-old mother and teacher is facing a long recovery after she was attacked by a shark during a morning swim at Coogee Beach on June 13.
Ms Stewart was swimming close to shore, within the flags, when the attack occurred. She sustained severe and life-threatening injuries, including multiple bites, lacerations, fractures and major blood loss.
She remains in a critical condition on life support at St Vincent’s Hospital, where she has undergone multiple surgeries. Her treatment has included the amputation of her arm, with further procedures scheduled as part of her ongoing care.
Her family has said the risk of infection remains extreme because of open wounds contaminated with sand and debris.
A Mother, Teacher and Coogee Local
Ms Stewart has been described by her family as a loving mother, committed teacher and Coogee local with a deep love for the ocean.
She was on maternity leave at the time of the attack and is the mother of a one-year-old daughter. Her family has said the support being raised will help her recovery and assist with the care and stability of her young family in the years ahead.
Her connection to the water was already well known. She had taken part in ocean swimming events, including the Coogee Island Challenge in 2024 with her partner Fernando. In November, she also led a 50km swim fundraiser for breast cancer research.
That history has become part of the wider response to her injuries, with friends, relatives and supporters focusing on the life she is working to return to: being a mother, recovering her strength and adjusting to the care she will need.
Family Stays Beside Her in Hospital
Ms Stewart’s mother Christine, a registered nurse, has been with her in ICU each day. Her partner Fernando has also been by her side after returning from an overseas work conference.
Her brother Josh Stewart has shared updates on her condition through the family’s fundraiser. He has said Ms Stewart has required extensive surgery and specialist care, with medical teams continuing to treat her injuries and monitor the risk of infection.
Friends have prepared a playlist of her favourite songs to play beside her hospital bed. Family members have also been arranging photos for her room, hoping to surround her with familiar memories when she becomes conscious.
The family has thanked the lifesavers, first responders, helicopter crew and medical staff who have helped Ms Stewart since the attack.
Recovery Fund Nears $500,000
A GoFundMe campaign organised by Josh Stewart has raised more than $450,000 AUD towards a $500,000 target, with more than 6,600 donations recorded.
The funds are intended to support Ms Stewart, Fernando and their young daughter as they face the recovery process. The money will go towards prosthetics, rehabilitation, ongoing care and the practical adjustments needed after the attack.
The campaign has also received support beyond donations, with people sharing the fundraiser, sending messages and providing practical items such as food, nappies and supplies.
For Ms Stewart’s family, the focus remains on her treatment, recovery and the support she will need in the months and years ahead.
Published 18-June-2026
