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Charlize Zmuda was swimming at Woorim Beach, about 70 kilometres north of Brisbane, when she was bitten by a shark in front of horrified onlookers about 4.45pm yesterday.
Despite the efforts of paramedics, she was unable to be saved.
Gathering at the beach with friends and family, her heartbroken parents paid tribute to their daughter this morning.
Her parents were too distressed to speak on camera, but told Today their beloved daughter was well respected in the community.
Charlize had served as a captain for the Bridie Island Surf Life Saving Club in 2024.
Charlize would often be four-wheel driving along the beach and picking up rubbish.
She was in her final year of high school and had just attended her school formal.
She had the biggest of hearts and would do anything for anyone, her parents said.