In a tragic turn of events, 12-year-old Nico Antic has succumbed to injuries following a shark attack. The young boy was swimming with friends at Nielsen Park, a heritage-listed site in Sydney Harbour’s eastern suburbs, when the incident occurred last Sunday.

Nico endured severe injuries to his legs and, despite medical efforts, passed away on Saturday. The news has cast a shadow over the community, who are grappling with the loss of such a vibrant young life.

“We are heartbroken to share that our son, Nico, has passed away,” his parents, Lorena and Juan Antic, conveyed in a heartfelt statement. They described Nico as a “happy, friendly, and sporty young boy” known for his kindness and generous spirit.

This incident has underscored the unpredictable nature of wildlife and the inherent risks of swimming in open waters. As the community mourns, they remember Nico for the joy and positivity he brought into their lives.

“Nico was a happy, friendly and sporty young boy with the most kind and generous spirit.”

“He was always full of life and that’s how we’ll remember him.”

The couple thanked the first responders and the teams at Sydney Children’s Hospital “for everything they did to care for Nico” as well as those in their community for their support.

The Antic family had been preparing for the “worst possible outcome” since the attack.

A friend of the Antic family set up a fundraiser that has collected more than $238,000.

It was the first of four shark bites within three days in NSW, triggering widespread community concern and beach closures.

The attacks followed several days of rain in Sydney last week, which created “brackish” water around Sydney that provided ideal conditions for shark attacks.

All NSW beaches are however expected to be open for the Australia Day long weekend despite the spate of shark attacks which prompted days-long closures.

NSW’s shark management program, given a $2.5 million boost in December, includes SMART drumlines and drone patrols at 50 beaches during school holidays.

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