Bowie Daly, 9, makes surfing comeback after surviving shark attack - ABC News

Bowie Daly, a nine-year-old surfer from NSW, has successfully returned to the waves just weeks after surviving a shark attack at Tathra Beach on August 7.

The young surfer sustained only minor injuries including bruises, scratches, and a broken board when a shark grabbed his surfboard before releasing it. Despite the frightening encounter, Bowie gradually worked his way back into the water, starting with swimming near shore before progressing to boogie boarding and finally surfing again. He admits feeling scared in murky water but finds comfort surfing with others in clear conditions.

• Bowie became a Surfaid ambassador, committing to surf daily throughout September to raise funds for remote surfing communities
• Shark attack survivor Dave Pearson, who founded Bite Club support group, notes that younger surfers typically show greater resilience in returning to the water
• The family maintains their philosophy of respectfully sharing ocean space with sharks, viewing the attack as an unfortunate but rare occurrence
• Mental recovery involves taking it one day at a time, with support from family and friends being crucial for rebuilding confidence