A desperate search is currently underway for a missing surfer following what authorities believe to be a shark attack at Wharton Beach, located near Duke of Orleans Bay on Western Australias south coast. The incident, reported shortly after midday on March 10, 2025, has left local authorities scrambling to find the individual, who has yet to be identified.
According to WA Police, emergency services received the call about 12:10 PM after witnesses saw the surfer being attacked by what was described as a cmassive shark. Eyewitnesses reported the shocking scenes as the attack unfolded, lasting several minutes, just feet from the shore where onlookers watched helplessly. They described the scene as extremely distressing and recognizable hues of concern rippled through the surrounding beachgoers.
A surfboard belonging to the missing surfer was discovered floating nearby, bearing distinct bite marks, adding to the alarming circumstances surrounding the incident. The fact the board had obvious signs of damage has intensified fears for the individuals safety and wellbeing.
Marine Rescue WA, along with State Emergency Service personnel and police, have immediately commenced extensive search operations. They are covering the waters off Wharton Beach, effectively about 80 kilometers east of Esperance, for traces of the surfer since no signs of his whereabouts have been reported.
Two ambulance crews from St John WA also attended the scene, mobilizing to the area to provide support if needed. Despite their swift response, the search for the surfer has proven challenging; the waters are deep and murky, complicate efforts.
Sorting through the events as they unfolded, reports indicate the shark was spotted about 50 meters offshore around 12:15 PM—just minutes after the surfer was seen struggling. This led to immediate evacuation orders for all beachgoers who were present at Wharton Beach. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development stated they are collaborating with local authorities to monitor the situation closely.
This incident has raised concerns yet again over the region's history of shark encounters, especially following previous tragedies. Three fatal shark attacks have occurred along the Esperance coast within the last eight years, with the most recent victim being local surfer Andrew Sharpe, who went missing off Kelp Beds during similar circumstances back in October 2020. He has never been found, and the haunting memories of his disappearance still affect the community.
The community, already recovering from past shark attacks, appears to be reeling once again as they witness the resurgence of shark sightings along their coast. Marc Payne, a local abalone diver and member of the group known as the Bite Club, expressed his sentiments, stating, "I wish the first responders and the person that's been attacked all the best. We used to have a big surfing and diviing community here, but we don't have much of it anymore." His thoughts resonate deeply with those who have been affected by the previous incidents.
Australian statistics reveal alarming trends; three out of six of the most recent fatal shark attacks within Western Australia have taken place around the Esperance area, marking it as not only picturesque but also perilous for ocean activities. There is no current evidence confirming the species of shark involved, fueling additional uncertainty surrounding the regions' shark population behavior.
Authorities are emphasizing caution across local beaches, urging fishermen, surfers, and swimmers to remain vigilant, especially since conditions continue to be favorable for such sightings. The Department of Primary Industries has reiterated the need for precautionary measures whilst continuing their investigation and search operations.
The incident has provoked renewed discussions among locals and experts about shark conservation and safety policies near populated areas. Increasing frequency of shark visits to popular surf and swim spots has many calling for enhanced monitoring and management strategies.
While the search for the missing surfer continues, the community turns its focus to support those involved and remain hopeful for positive news. A sense of urgency permeates Wharton Beach, with everyone hoping for the best possible outcome under these distressing circumstances.
Updates on the situation are expected to emerge as authorities conduct their search efforts. Community members are gripped by this tragic turn of events and the past weighs heavily as they hold on to the hope of bringing the surfer home safely.