Shark warning after surfer knocked off board offshore from Yardie Creek near Exmouth

A surfer has escaped after being knocked off their board by a shark off WA’s north.

The encounter happened about 12pm on Tuesday roughly 1km offshore from Yardie Creek, about 90km south-west of Exmouth.

Authorities were alerted about 1pm after a 2m shark struck the surfer’s board, knocking them into the water.

Despite the frightening encounter, the surfer was not hurt.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development issued a shark warning for the area and urged beachgoers and anyone heading onto the water to take extra care.

People are being told to follow any beach closures put in place by local government rangers, Parks and Wildlife Service officers or Surf Life Saving WA.

Authorities are also urging the public to check the SharkSmart website or SharkSmart WA app for the latest shark activity before entering the water.

DPIRD officers are continuing to monitor the situation.

WHAT TO DO

• Take additional caution in the Yardie Creek area.
• Adhere to beach closures advised by local government rangers, Parks and Wildlife Service officers or Surf Life Saving WA.
• Use your Sea Sense and stay informed by checking for shark activity on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app or follow @SLSWA on X.
• If you see a shark, report it to Water Police on 9442 8600. All shark sighting information reported to Water Police is provided to land managers and relevant authorities and to the public on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app and @SLSWA on X.

EXTRA INFORMATION

Switch on your Sea Sense and stay informed of shark activity information by checking the SharkSmart website – www.sharksmart.com.au/shark-activity, download the SharkSmart WA app or follow @SLSWA on X – x.com/SLSWA. Check www.sharksmart.com.au/news for updates to this alert and to view other warnings and media releases.