Adventist teacher Leah Stewart was attacked by a shark at Sydney’s Coogee Beach, New South Wales, Australia, on June 13, 2026. After several surgeries, one of her arms was amputated as part of her treatment.

Stewart grew up attending Adventist schools and is now a teacher at Hurstville Adventist School in Sydney.

The incident occurred during a morning swim at Coogee Beach. Stewart was pulled from the water by a lifeguard and received immediate assistance from an off-duty doctor and paramedics. She was then transported to a hospital for treatment.

In the days since the attack, church members, colleagues, and friends have rallied around Stewart, her husband, Fernando, and their daughter, August. A prayer vigil hosted by Castle Hill Adventist Church gathered supporters for prayer on June 16. A GoFundMe page has also been launched to assist with ongoing medical, rehabilitation, and recovery costs.

On June 26, students across Sydney participated in a “Shine Bright for Ms. Stewart” day. Students are encouraged to wear yellow and other bright colors to reflect Stewart’s love of sunshine and vibrant color. They were also encouraged to bring a gold coin donation to help support medical expenses.

Photo: South Pacific Division

Photo: South Pacific Division

Photo: South Pacific Division

“Our hearts are with Miss Leah Stewart, her daughter, partner, and her family,” shared Erika Ratu, Hurstville Adventist School principal, in a post on the school’s Facebook page last week. “Ms. Stewart has a beautiful way of bringing joy and light into every space—she is deeply caring, advocates for others, and treats everyone with warmth and kindness. She is deeply loved by our students, staff, and parents.

“We continue to hold Leah and her family in our prayers during this time, and we are so grateful for the outpouring of support, love, and care from our wider community.”

In a recent update from her brother, Joshua Stewart, stated that doctors were able to bring her out of an induced coma for a short period. He also stated that Stewart will remain in the ICU and continue to require a high level of care and support for some time.

“She has undergone five days of surgery over the past week and is scheduled for further surgeries ... through the coming weeks,” he said. “Leah has a long road ahead and still remains in critical care, but this is such a positive first step and gives us hope for Leah’s long-term recovery. Again, thank you so much to everyone who continues to support Leah through your care, prayer, love, and generosity.”