A shocking incident has unfolded on a remote South Australian beach, where a young surfer is feared to have been taken by a great white shark.
The attack occurred on Thursday evening at Granites Beach in Westall, on the Eyre Peninsula, just eight hours drive from Adelaide.
A Warning Unheeded
In a chilling twist, a local fisherman had warned others about an “aggressive” great white in the area just four hours before the alarm was raised.
The warning was posted on a South Australian West Coast shark alert Facebook forum, stating “Large great white sighted acting aggressively near Granites, Streaky Bay.”
Despite this warning, the 28-year-old surfer entered the water, and his board was later found washed up on the beach with a bite mark in it.
Search and Rescue Efforts Underway
Emergency services rushed to the scene, and a search is currently underway for the missing surfer. The beach has been closed, and the public has been advised to avoid the area.
South Australia Police confirmed that a search is ongoing, but so far, only the surfer’s board has been recovered.
A Community in Mourning
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many taking to social media to express their condolences.
One local wrote, “Dear community, there has been a devastating fatality at Granites, Streaky Bay. Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and fellow surfers. It is a traumatizing and sad time, please get around each other.”
A History of Shark Attacks
Granites Beach is a known breeding ground for great white sharks and has been the site of a previous fatal attack.
In October 2023, 55-year-old surfer Tod Gendle was attacked and killed by a shark at the same location. The incident highlights the dangers of shark attacks in the area and the importance of heeding warnings from locals.
A Reminder of the Risks
The incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with surfing in areas known to have shark activity.
While shark attacks are rare, they can be devastating, and it’s essential for surfers to be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions.
As the search for the missing surfer continues, our thoughts are with the family and friends of the victim, and we hope that this incident will raise awareness about shark safety in the area.