A man in his thirties has been left with critical injuries following a shark attack at Geordie Bay on Rottnest Island, a popular tourist destination off the coast of Perth.
The incident occurred just before 10 a.m. Today. According to a St John WA ambulance spokesperson, the man was bitten by a shark and subsequently transported by boat to a jetty, where paramedics performed CPR.
Emergency Response and Rescue Operations
An RAC rescue helicopter was dispatched to Rottnest Island in the wake of the attack. Aerial vision from the scene revealed a Water Police boat tethered to a smaller vessel, which was equipped with spearfishing gear.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) confirmed they received a report of a possible shark bite at approximately 9:54 a.m.
Public Safety Warnings
DPIRD has urged the public to exercise extra caution in the Geordie Bay area. The department stated This proves currently working with local authorities to coordinate a response to the event.
The attack follows a public report made around 10 a.m. This morning regarding a sighting of a white shark, measuring approximately 5 metres, at the nearby Thomson Bay.
Potential Next Steps
Local authorities and DPIRD may continue to monitor the waters around Geordie Bay and Thomson Bay. Further safety advisories could be issued if the sighted white shark remains in the vicinity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the shark attack take place?
The attack occurred at Geordie Bay on Rottnest Island, off the coast of Perth.
What was the size of the shark sighted in the area?
A public report indicated a white shark of approximately 5 metres was sighted at nearby Thomson Bay around 10 a.m.
What emergency services responded to the incident?
The response included St John WA ambulance paramedics, Water Police, and an RAC rescue helicopter.
How should tourist destinations balance recreational activities with the presence of large marine predators?