Nico had been jumping from rocks with mates at Sydney Harbour near Shark Beach last Sunday when he was bitten by a suspected bull shark about 4.20pm.
The North Bondi surf life-saving nipper suffered injuries to both his legs, but his brave friends pulled him from the water.
Nico was given first aid by Water Police who then rushed him to Rose Bay wharf, where paramedics took him to hospital in a critical condition.
One of his friends recounted that the young boy “never gave up for a second”, in an interview with 7News.
NSW Police Superintendent Joseph McNulty commended the “brave” actions of Nico’s friends.
“[They were] very confronting injuries for those boys to see, but I suppose that’s mateship,” he said.
A GoFundMe set up in the aftermath by family friend Victor Piñeiro has since raised more than $238,000 for the Antic family.
“Tragically, their beloved child, Nico, was attacked by a shark on Sunday in Sydney Harbour and sustained devastating injuries,” the fundraiser said as of Saturday.
“Despite all efforts, this heartbreaking event has led to the worst possible outcome.
“We are raising funds to help the Antic family cover upcoming expenses and related arrangements during this incredibly difficult time.
“Any contribution, no matter the size, would be deeply appreciated and will help ease the financial burden as they grieve.”
NSW was rocked by four shark attacks over a 48-hour period, including surfer Andre de Ruyter, 27, who was bitten the following day at Manly Beach.
Lorena and Juan Antic also thanked first responders and the team at Sydney Children’s Hospital for “everything they did to care for Nico”.
“We would also like to thank everyone in the community for their support and kind messages,” they said.
“We ask you please respect our privacy during this exceptionally difficult time.”
NSW opposition leader Kellie Sloane, the member for Vaucluse, said the community was “mourning the loss of a young life taken far too soon”.
“On behalf of the NSW opposition and our local community, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Antic family and Nico’s friends,” she said.“Like so many of our kids, Nico was enjoying the beach on a beautiful Sunday afternoon – doing what generations of local kids have done before him, having fun at Jump Rock.
“My thoughts remain with Nico’s loved ones, and with everyone who has been affected by this heartbreaking incident.”
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