Fatal Shark Attack on Great Barrier Reef
A 39-year-old man has died following a shark attack on the Great Barrier Reef, south of Cairns in far north Queensland.
The incident occurred while the man was reportedly fishing at Kennedy Shoal, a shallow reef located approximately 50 kilometers off the Queensland coast, between Cairns and Townsville. This area is known for its popularity among recreational fishers and divers.
Emergency services were alerted around midday on Sunday. The man was retrieved from the water and transported to the Hull River Heads boat ramp, near the town of Tully, in critical condition. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after being brought ashore.
Official Response and Investigation
Queensland police have stated they will prepare a report for the coroner regarding the "sudden and non-suspicious death of a 39-year-old man" in the Cassowary Coast region.
"Emergency services were called to Hull River Heads boat ramp just before 12pm, following reports a man had been attacked by a shark while out at Kennedy Shoal.
"The man was retrieved from the water and died from his injuries."
Context and Previous Incidents
Shark attacks along the Queensland coast are rare but have occurred in reefs and shoals in the region. Notably, in 2021, retired US Navy diver Rick Bettua survived a bull shark attack on Britomart Reef, which lies about 30 kilometers south of Kennedy Shoal.
At this time, the species of shark involved in Sunday's fatal attack has not been identified. Bull sharks and tiger sharks are commonly found along the Great Barrier Reef. Great white sharks are also present but are less frequent in the warmer waters of the reef.
Recent Related Incident
Separately, a man died last weekend after a shark attack near Perth. The 38-year-old was treated at the scene on Saturday but could not be revived.
