Steven Payne, originally hailing from New Zealand but residing in Melbourne, was enjoying a six-month caravan trip around Australia with his girlfriend when tragedy struck at Wharton Beach in Condingup, east of Esperance. On Monday, five weeks into their adventure, the 37-year-old was surfing when he was attacked by a shark, witnessed by those on the beach.
Eyewitness accounts described the horrific scene as screams echoed, with only his surfboard remaining afloat about 30 metres from shore. Despite a diligent search by police, which was halted the following day, Steven was presumed dead.
His family expressed their deep sorrow, describing him as a “gentle giant” with a loving and kind nature. They noted his height of 6ft4 and characterised him as intelligent, humorous, and practical. Steven was not only devoted to his partner, with whom he had been together for 12 years, but also cherished his family, friends, and their adopted dog, Poppy.
A passionate surfer and touch rugby player, Steven also served as a volunteer firefighter and was well-respected among his peers. His family recalled a recent surfing experience where he rode one of the best waves of his life alongside a dolphin, a moment that had left him exhilarated.
In response to the unfortunate incident, calls for shark culling emerged. However, his family firmly stated that Steven would have opposed such actions. They highlighted his love for the ocean and acknowledged the risks associated with it, noting that both he and his partner frequently engaged in ocean activities, including shark diving, and were aware of the dangers involved.