Stephen Zmuda expressed his profound grief over the tragic loss of his 17-year-old daughter, Charlize, who was fatally bitten by a shark while swimming at Woorim Beach near Brisbane. Supported by Surf Life Saving Queensland, he thanked the community for their overwhelming support following her death. Charlize, a dedicated member of the Surf Life Saving Club since she was eight, was swimming in an unpatrolled area when the incident occurred.
Her mother, Renee, remembered her daughter as “a shining light” who positively impacted those around her and urged people to remember the joy she brought to their lives rather than the circumstances of her passing. Friends and community members honoured Charlize by leaving flowers at the beach, illustrating the love and respect she garnered.
Charlize’s death has left a deep void in the Bribie Island community, coming only weeks after another shark attack in Queensland. In response to the tragedy, the beach has been closed, and a vigil was held to celebrate her life. Queensland Surf Life Saving chief executive Dave Whimpey highlighted Charlize’s commitment to ensuring the safety of others, reminding everyone of her remarkable contributions as a lifesaver.