A man has been whisked off to hospital after being savaged by a shark during an early morning dip near a bustling jetty.
The terrifying event occurred at Port Noarlunga, a stone’s throw from the jetty on the South Australian beach, around 9.45am local time on Thursday, May 15. Emergency services dashed to the scene and bathers were cleared from the water for their own safety following the shark assault.
South Australia Police have confirmed the man is in a grave condition but have not released any additional updates. Officers continue to patrol the beach as they conduct their investigation.
It remains uncertain what species of shark attacked the man or if it is still on the loose.
A police spokesperson uploaded a statment to Facebook saying: “Police are at the scene of a shark attack at Port Noarlunga. About 9.45am today (Thursday 15 May), emergency services were called to the Port Noarlunga jetty after reports that a man swimming in the water had been bitten by a shark.
“He was helped from the water and treated at the scene by paramedics before he was taken to hospital in a serious condition. Swimmers have been evacuated from the water. Please avoid the area.”
According to ABC news, the South Australia Ambulance Service reports that the man has sustained an injury to his thigh.
This follows the incident in 2023 when 32-year-old Bridgette O’Shannessy was attacked by a white pointer shark while diving at Port Noarlunga with her partner. She survived but required extensive surgery on her head and face.
Ms O’Shannessy was one of five individuals who fell victim to a shark attack in South Australian waters in 2023, with three not surviving their injuries.
Port Noarlunga is a scenic seaside village situated roughly 30km south of Adelaide, ideal for swimming, kayaking, snorkelling, diving, and fishing. Its red sandstone beach cliffs, lengthy jetty, and reef make it one of the state’s most iconic diving destinations.
The South Australia Ambulance Service has been approached for additional information.
