Streaky Bay, a coastal town on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, has recently become the focus of intense concern following multiple shark attacks at Granites Beach. In less than two years, the area witnessed two fatal encounters in October 2023 and January 2025 both involving surfers. These incidents have sparked widespread fear, grief among local communities, and urgent discussions over future shark mitigation measures at this once-tranquil location.
Recent Shark Attacks at Granites Beach
Granites Beach, just south of Streaky Bay, has now been the site of two tragic shark-related deaths:
- October 21, 2023: Tod Gendle, age 55, was fatally attacked by a great white shark while swimming at Granites Beach
- January 2, 2025: Lance Appleby, a 28-year-old surfer from Port Lincoln, disappeared after reportedly being bitten by a shark at the same spot. Despite extensive searches, his body was not recovered
The area’s recent shark activity extends beyond these two fatalities. In May 2023, surfer Simon Baccanello was killed near Elliston, roughly 120¯km away, and a fatality occurred off Eyre Peninsula that same year
Environmental and Human Factors Behind the Attacks
Experts and locals speculate about the reasons behind increased shark encounters around Streaky Bay:
- White shark population recovery: After gillnet bans and national protections, numbers of great whites off South Australia have surged, with estimates of 500-700 individuals
- Local ecological changes: A massive toxic algal bloom earlier in 2025 may have disoriented marine life including sharks leading to abnormal behavior
- Tourism and fishing: Whale and crayfish tourism, along with recreational fishing, might be conditioning sharks toward humans and boats nearshore
Community Impact and Response
Following Lance Appleby’s disappearance, Streaky Bay residents responded with grief and solidarity. A paddle-out memorial was held at Granites Beach, followed by a service attended by local surfers, friends, and family
Authorities and Council Reactions
- The District Council is reviewing safety measures including possible restrictions on crayfishing and cage diving near Granites
- Surf Life Saving South Australia and the government are calling for enhanced funding for aerial shark patrols and research into mitigation strategies
- Despite public support for protective measures, some locals emphasize maintaining human access to coastal waters alongside shark safety
Broader Shark Risks Along South Australia’s Coast
The tragedy at Streaky Bay is part of a broader pattern. South Australia recorded three fatal shark attacks in 2023 alone (Elliston, Ethel Beach, and Granites), followed by the 2025 incident
These incidents highlight the reality of shark encounters in the region, prompting calls for improved public education, increased research into shark-driven ecological changes, and technologies like SMART drumlines and nets already used in other Australian states
Strategies for Safer Coasts
Experts recommend several measures to help reduce shark attack risks:
- Enhanced aerial and marine patrols during peak beachgoing periods
- Implementing drumlines and SMART nets to deter large sharks nearshore
- Public alert systems using air horns and signage in identified risk zones
- Community education on shark behavior, avoidance strategies, and safe swimming conditions
Despite solutions like shark nets being effective in Queensland and New South Wales since the 1930s, South Australia has been slower to adopt similar measures
Navigating the Aftermath
The spate of fatal shark attacks at Streaky Bay and Granites Beach serves as a grim reminder of the delicate balance between human recreation and marine ecosystems. The region faces a complex challenge honoring the memory of victims like Tod Gendle and Lance Appleby while building community resilience and safety. With rising great white populations, ecological factors, and evolving tourism patterns, coordinated efforts among government agencies, conservationists, and the local community are crucial. Only through thoughtful safety protocols, ongoing education, and environmental understanding can Streaky Bay find a sustainable path forward one that preserves both human life and marine biodiversity.