source : the age
A man has been rushed to hospital with serious leg injuries after a reported shark incident at a beach in Geraldton on Monday morning.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development reported the “possible shark incident” occurred at 9.45am at Glenfield Beach, but provided no further details.
It is understood to have happened about 40 metres offshore.
St John Ambulance said a man, aged in his 50s, was rushed to Geraldton Hospital from the beach as a priority one emergency.
He arrived about 10.30am.
It is understood he has suffered serious leg injuries, and he is in a serious but stable condition.
City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Jerry Clune said the attack had come as a shock to everybody in the community.
“We are anxiously waiting to hear about what has occurred here and we are certainly hoping for the best, but we are still gathering information about what has actually occurred,” he said.
“Drummond Cove is known as a fishing area and there is an offshore reef that is popular with spearfishers.
“A lot of people use the area for early morning swims and it is not known for having a lot of shark activity – at least not in recent years.”
Clune urged the local community to adhere to warnings from the DPIRD and local police in the area as the city seeks further information on the attack.
“”We urge the community to stay safe and at the moment our thoughts are with the person who has been attacked,” he said.
“Once we know the extent of the incident we will be providing further comment.
“This has come as a real shock to community.”
Shadow Minister for Fisheries and local member Kirrilee Warr said the latest attack prompted questions about how the state government manages sharks in WA.
“Our thoughts are with the victim, their family and the first responders involved in this incident. At this stage, little is known and we are seeking further updates from authorities and the minister in relation to the incident,” she said.
“What we do know is that fewer than 300 sharks are currently tagged under the state’s monitoring program. We have previously called on the government to undertake a review of the shark monitoring system to ensure it is providing the best possible information and protection for coastal communities.”
The City of Greater Geraldton has closed parts of the beach, which is a popular surfing spot.
Ocean users are being advised to be cautious as authorities investigate the incident.
