A vital shark alert system in Perth has gone down just days after the State’s second fatal shark attack in the past three weeks.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) issued a shark advice for Fremantle following a fault that has affected the city’s critical warning tower.
It leaves swimmers blind to any possible shark encounters amid a period of increased sightings for the state.
The crucial fault follows the tragic death of Daniel Turpin, 35, who died after he was attacked on Saturday.
The Albany man was spearfishing off Michaelmas Island, off Albany, when he was bit and killed by a suspected 4.5m shark.
WA Police said Mr Turpin was critically injured from the attack, and his family rushed him 13km by boat to Albany marina to meet paramedics.
Despite their best efforts, he could not be saved.
His family issued a heartbreaking statement on Sunday following the tragic incident.
“Daniel was an adored husband, son, brother and uncle who had a lifelong love and deep respect for the ocean,” the statement said.
“Our family is devastated by this tragic loss and we are still coming to terms with what has happened.
“Daniel brought enormous joy to the lives of those who knew and loved him, and he will be deeply missed.
“We would like to thank the emergency services personnel and all those who have offered their support and compassion during this incredibly difficult time.
“We respectfully ask that the media and the wider community respect our privacy and allow us the space to grieve together.
“We appreciate your understanding.”
It is the State’s second fatal attack in just a few weeks after father-of-two Steven Mattaboni, 38, was killed while spearfishing off Rottnest Island on May 16.
The reported great white attack off Horseshoe Reef left his friends scrambling to provide CPR as they raced him to shore, but he could not be saved.
The public has been urged to take additional caution in the Port Beach area on Monday as maintenance crews work to repair the tower, and adhere to any beach closures.
Follow updates from the Shark Monitoring Network on the SharkSmart website.
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