The 57-year-old was surfing in a group north of the lifeguard tower, outside the patrolled zone, according to Surf Life Saving NSW.

A ‘freak incident that happens very, very rarely’

“I’ve got to say it’s a terrible, terrible thing and it’s one of those freak incidents that happens very, very rarely.”

A crowd gathered at Long Reef Beach after a man was killed by a shark while surfing in an unpatrolled area. Credit: Hannah Kwon

Duncan said that, based on eye-witness accounts, police were “fairly confident” it was a shark but were unsure of what type of shark it was.

“NSW government shark biologists will assess photographs of the incident to determine the species of shark involved,” they said.

Beaches to be closed for at least 24 hours

“Our deepest condolences go to the family of the man involved in this terrible tragedy,” he said.

Witnesses said the victim was brought ashore by two fellow surfers and that distraught loved ones rushed to the scene. Source: SBS News / Hannah Kwon

“For now, please remain clear of the water at beaches in the vicinity and follow the direction of lifeguards and lifesavers.”

“We express our gratitude to everyone involved in this incident for their rapid and professional response, including beachgoers, first responders, lifeguards, Surf Life Saving volunteers, police, and paramedics,” the council stated.

‘Everyone is going to be a little bit nervous’

Dee Why is a popular spot on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, and a junior surf tournament was being held at Long Reef Beach on Saturday morning.

The NSW government has initiated a trial to lessen the use of shark nets, inviting three councils, among them Northern Beaches Council, to choose a beach where nets might be removed.