Shark attack in Australia: Search for missing surfer as beachgoers watch in shock

Australian authorities on Monday informed that a surfer had gone missing after a suspected shark attack at Wharton Beach. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) issued a press release over the incident. DPIRD revealed that it received a report of a “serious shark bite” at Wharton Beach at around 12:17 pm.

Authorities have recovered a surfboard. However, the surfer remains missing. Western Australia police have launched a search operation to locate the victim. The beach has been closed for visitors. The beach is around 775 km away from south-east Perth. The species of the shark involved in the attack is unknown.

Horror engulfs witnesses over shark attack

Joscelin Boissieux, a witness, recalled the horrifying sight. He recalled that onlookers screamed in fear as the tragic incident happened. They quickly abandoned the waters and rushed to shore.

“We heard the scream, and everyone got out of the water there was only a surfboard left, floating around about 30 metres from the shore,” Boissieux told 9News Perth.

Boissieux said that the surfer’s partner was devastated after witnessing the attack. “She was shocked,” he claimed.

According to the Australian Shark-Incident Database, there have been four other shark attacks reported so far this year. This includes the fatal attack on a 17-year-old girl at Queensland’s Woorim Beach.

Authorities urge visitors to take caution

DPIRD issued a set of guidelines for anyone near the area:

Take additional caution in the Wharton Beach area.

Adhere to beach closures advised by Local Government Rangers, Parks and Wildlife Service officers or Surf Life Saving WA (SLSWA).

Use your Sea Sense and stay informed by checking for shark activity on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app or follow @SLSWA on X .

If you see a shark, report it to Water Police on 9442 8600. All shark sighting information reported to Water Police is provided to land managers and relevant authorities and to the public on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app and @SLSWA on X.