A significant shark attack occurred off the coast of Wharton Beach in Cape Le Grand, Condingup, approximately 60 kilometres east of Esperance. Beachgoers reported that a male surfer was targeted by the shark while he was in chest-deep water. His partner witnessed the incident and described the chaotic scene, with several bystanders hearing screams and urging the surfer to exit the water.
Witness Joscelin Boissieux recounted the panic that ensued: “Everyone got out of the water after the screams were heard.” Remaining in the water was only the surfer’s surfboard, which floated about 30 metres from the shore. Nearby, witnesses noted dark water and a shark fin circling in the vicinity.
Authorities received a call for help at 12:10 PM and promptly initiated a search operation for the man, who is believed to be from Melbourne. The local police stated, “It is believed the surfer was the victim of a serious shark bite incident.” The search resumed at dawn with support from Marine Rescue WA and the State Emergency Service (SES).
As a precaution, Wharton Beach has been closed indefinitely, although there have been no further reports of shark sightings. Notably, monitoring site SharkSmart reported a shark sighting 50 metres offshore shortly after the attack. Search efforts are ongoing, with the community alert and concerned following this alarming incident.