On March 12, 2025, a shark attack at Wharton Beach in Western Australia resulted in the death of 37-year-old Steven Payne, a New Zealand native. The search for Payne, who was surfing in chest-deep water at the time of the attack, has been suspended and shifted to a recovery operation, according to local officials.
- Shark attack in Western Australia on Monday
- Steven Payne, 37, was the victim
- Search turned into recovery operation
- Family remembers Payne as a gentle giant
- Drone footage captured during the attack
- Region has history of shark attacks
Steven Payne was surfing with his girlfriend and dog as part of a six-month caravan trip around Australia when the incident occurred. Witnesses reported seeing the attack, which was captured on drone footage. Western Australia Police Force Senior Sergeant Christopher Taylor stated that the footage was graphic, showing significant blood and confirming the nature of the attack. Only Payne’s surfboard, marked by bite marks, has been recovered.
This shark attack is part of a troubling pattern in Western Australia, an area known for frequent shark encounters. Earlier in the year, another surfer, 28-year-old Lance Appleby, was killed at Granites Beach on the Eyre Peninsula. The region has seen multiple incidents, raising concerns about surfer safety.
Payne’s family remembered him as a gentle giant, describing him as kind, funny, and devoted to his loved ones. They expressed their grief in a statement, highlighting his deep love for his partner and family. The community is mourning his loss, and the investigation continues to determine the type and size of the shark involved.
The tragic death of Steven Payne underscores the dangers of surfing in areas with known shark activity. As investigations proceed, the community reflects on the loss of a cherished individual and the need for awareness regarding ocean safety.
