The family of a boy mauled by a shark off a Sydney beach are preparing for the “worst possible outcome” as the public rallies around them.<\/p>\n
A friend of the Antic family has set up a fundraiser that has collected more than AU$120,000 (NZ$138,000) after 12-year-old Nico sustained devastating leg injuries<\/a> on Sunday.<\/p>\n It was the first of four shark bites within three days in NSW, triggering widespread community concern and beach closures<\/a>.<\/p>\n “Despite all efforts, this heart-breaking event has led to the worst possible outcome,” family friend and fundraiser founder Victor Pineiro said.<\/p>\n “We are raising funds to help the Antic family cover upcoming expenses and related arrangements during this incredibly difficult time.”<\/p>\n A message of solidarity was left by the mother of young surfer Khai Cowley, who was mauled by a suspected great white off the coast of South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula in December 2023.<\/p>\n “From one mum to another, my heart is holding you so tightly,” Kate Barley told the Antic family.<\/p>\n “I lost my beautiful boy Khai in a shark attack in SA \u2013 he was only 15 \u2013 and I know how unbearable this waiting and fear can be.”<\/p>\n