Australia: Man killed in great white shark attack

Photograph by Fallows C, Gallagher AJ, Hammerschlag N

A 28-year-old man has reportedly been killed by a great white shark while spearfishing off the southern coast of Australia.

A number of witnesses reported seeing a man attacked by a great white near Goldsmith Beach, while he was spearfishing with friends at around midday Saturday. The group were reportedly experienced spear-fishermen, and were practicing for an upcoming competition.

Police and emergency services combed the area with the use of boats and helicopters, but are reported to have found no trace of the victim.

A great white shark had been spotted in the area over the last few days, possibly attracted to the abundance of snapper fish in the vicinity at this time of year.

In total, seven fatal shark attacks have now occurred off the coast of Australia in the last three years, with officials considering a policy of culling great whites, tiger sharks, and bulls sharks larger than 3m in coastal waters. Thousands of people across Australia rallied against the proposed cull last week, claiming that there was no evidence that killing the larger sharks would reduce attacks.