Shark expert says Tony Abbott ‘doesn’t understand the science’ after former PM calls for cull

Another expert says drone technology may have prevented shark attack at Coogee beach on Saturday

A shark behaviour expert says Tony Abbott “doesn’t understand the science” after the former prime minister called for sharks to be culled in the wake of an attack at a Sydney beach.

Leah Stewart, a 35-year-old woman, was bitten on the leg and arm by what was thought to be a great white shark on Saturday morning.

In a statement on Monday afternoon, Stewart’s family described her as a “passionate teacher and Coogee local” whose injuries remained “severe and life-threatening”.

“She remains in a critical condition and has undergone multiple surgeries in the days after the attack,” they said.

“As a family we are shocked and devastated that this could happen to our beloved partner, daughter, and mother who is so full of life and energy.”

They thanked lifesavers, medical staff and members of the public for their support.

Abbott said in a social media video it was “so wrong that we don’t cull sharks after attacks” and said a fishery to catch sharks needed to be established.