Shark attack: WA authorities close Margaret River beaches after surfer bites leg
- Surfer in his 20s taken to hospital
- Viewers claimed he was ‘very lucky’
- Local beaches closed until further notice
Several popular beaches have been closed after a surfer was bitten by a shark in Western Australia in an ordeal.
The reported attack occurred at Gnarabup Beach, near the Boat Ramp surf break in the Margaret River region, shortly before 9 a.m. Monday.
The surfer in his early 20s managed to swim to shore where he received first aid from off-duty nurses for a deep leg wound after he was bitten by a shark, suspected to be a great white shark.
He was later taken to Bunbury Regional Hospital where he is believed to be in stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries.
A surprised onlooker told the West Australian that the surfer was “very lucky it wasn’t worse” and that he seemed “calm” after reaching the shore and seeking help at a nearby cafe.
The ordeal occurred near Gnarabup Beach (pictured) in the Margaret River region of Washington.
Officials from the Department for Primary Industries and Regional Development have confirmed that they are investigating the incident.
“DPIRD is working with local authorities and more information will be provided as it becomes available,” the department said.
Swimmers in the Gnarabup and Prevelly areas have been advised to “take more caution”.
The Augusta Margaret River County has closed all beaches from Gas Bay to Margaret River Mouth until further notice.
“To ensure the safety of our community, please do not enter the water during this time,” an alert on their website reads.
The surfer is understood to have been bitten by a suspected great white shark (file image)
