Australia's beaches are renowned for their beauty, attracting locals and tourists to their shores. However, the ocean is a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable environment, and a recent event at one of the country's most beloved beaches serves as a reminder of nature's power and the need for vigilance when enjoying these natural wonders.

Over the weekend, beachgoers at Sydney's Manly Beach witnessed an extraordinary natural occurrence that left many in awe and a little bit alarmed. Swimmers were ordered out of the water as millions of fish swarmed the coastline, creating a massive bait ball that could potentially attract unwanted marine predators.

Professional photographer Lee Bollom captured the mesmerising scene from his ninth-floor apartment window. He observed three separate schools of fish converging into one colossal bait ball, a sight he described as 'amazing' and a magical event to witness so close to home. The dark clusters of fish stood out against the crystal blue waters, creating a beautiful and slightly ominous spectacle.


As temperatures soared above 30 degrees, the presence of the bait ball prompted safety concerns. Smaller fish often attract larger predators, and with the potential for sharks to be drawn to the area, authorities took no chances. Swimmers and surfers were promptly directed to leave the water for several hours while the situation was monitored.


Bollom, concerned for the safety of those on the beach, used his drone to scan the coastline for any signs of sharks. While he observed smaller fish being preyed upon by larger ones, he did not spot any sharks. However, he noted that bait balls are typically an early indicator that sharks might be nearby.

The question arises: why are bait balls considered dangerous for swimmers? Shark encounters are relatively rare around Sydney's waters, but the presence of a bait ball increases the risk. Marine biologist Lawrence Chlebeck from Humane Society International explained that certain environmental factors, such as bait balls, feeding birds, and active dolphins, can attract sharks to an area.

Chlebeck emphasised that sharks are not actively seeking to bite humans, as we are not part of their natural diet. Instead, they are drawn to the easy feeding opportunities provided by schools of fish near the shore. When these predators are feeding, they are highly active and focused on their prey, which means it's safest for humans to stay clear and avoid becoming inadvertently involved in the feeding frenzy.


This incident at Manly Beach is a stark reminder of the importance of respecting the ocean and its inhabitants. While shark bites are rare, beachgoers can help ensure their safety and continue to enjoy Australia's stunning coastal environments by staying informed and heeding warnings.
We at the Seniors Discount Club love celebrating Australia's weird and wonderful environment, and we encourage our members to share their experiences and tips for staying safe while enjoying the great outdoors. Have you ever witnessed a natural event like this? What precautions do you take when swimming at the beach? Join the conversation and let us know in the comments below!