Shark Attack in South Australia: Who Was Lance Appleby?
The shocking news about the South Australian shark attack that cost the life of a young surfer resonated with many Australians. Lance Appleby’s tragic story needs to be told, as it highlights the shark attack in South Australia alongside his burning passion for surfing. This article will uncover the details of what transpired and shed light on who Lance Appleby truly was.
Who was Lance Appleby?
Lance Appleby was a 28-year-old surfer who lived in Port Lincoln, South Australia. He was well-known in his region for his zeal for the ocean and surfing.
He is also known for being an accomplished footballer, having played for the Marble Range Football Club in South Australia and later the Tweed Coast Tigers Football Club in Queensland.
His friends and teammates remember him as a gentleman who motivated those around him, being an active and responsible sportsman and citizen.
What Happened to Lance Appleby?
Surfer Lance Appleby was at Granites Beach, which is located near Streaky Bay on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, on the 2nd of January 2025. During the evening, at about 7 PM, he was out surfing when witnesses saw him getting attacked by a shark. Lance’s body was never located, even after a thorough search by local volunteers and emergency services.
After the incident, the surfing community uncovered Lance’s surfboard with bite marks, which confirmed the shark attack. The beach was closed after these incidents for public safety.
Lance was known to be an accomplished footballer and surfer. He played with the Marble Range Football Club in South Australia and moved to the Tweed Coast Tigers Football Club in Queensland.
His unfortunate demise had a severe impact on the community.
Family and friends came together to pay tribute to his life on January 13, 2025, in Streaky Bay, where a memorial service was held. They honoured Lance for being adventurous and passionate about the ocean.
This event was the fourth reported fatal shark attack in South Australia in a worrying trend over a span of one and a half years.
What Family and Friends Said at Lance Appleby’s Memorial Service
Family and friends attended the memorial service of Lance Appleby in Streaky Bay, where they fondly remembered and celebrated his life. During the service, Lance’s sister Gabrielle Appleby said he was genuine and fun-loving and also spoke on how cherishing of friends and caring in nature he was. She remembered the moments their father had relished while teaching Lance surfing and the joy it brought him.
Another sister, Marilla Appleby, spoke of Lance’s evolving journey towards self-acceptance, describing him as a very sensitive soul. While recalling her brother, she expressed pride in his self-awareness but also in their close bond, adding that the loss has deeply affected the family.
Family friend Kayla Window elaborated on how Lance’s zest for life allowed him to forge deep connections with the community as well as inspire a love for the outdoors. He placed enormous importance on mental health, encouraging everyone to take care of and check on each other.
In the end, the attendees placed shells and plants from Lance’s favourite beaches on his surfboard as a way to show his everlasting affection for the ocean. The act served as a touching moment in the remembrance service.
Other Shark Attack Victims in South Australia
There have been other fatal shark attacks in South Australia in recent times. Notably, Granites Beach near Streaky Bay has witnessed multiple incidents.
- October 21, 2023 – Tod Gendle: A 55-year-old man named Tod Gendle was fatally attacked by a great white shark while swimming at Granites Beach. This location is popular among surfers but is also recognised as a potential breeding area for great white sharks.
- December 28, 2023 – Khai Cowley: Just two months later, 15-year-old surfer Khai Cowley was killed by a great white shark while surfing at Ethel Wreck Beach, near Marion Bay on the southwest coast of Yorke Peninsula.
- January 2, 2025 – Lance Appleby: On this date, 28-year-old surfer Lance Appleby was attacked and killed by a shark at Granites Beach, the same location as the October 2023 attack.
Safety Measures to Reduce Shark Attack Risks
Shark attacks are rare but can be serious. To stay safe while enjoying the ocean, consider the following precautions:
- Swim in Groups
Sharks are less likely to approach groups of people. Always swim, surf, or dive with others to reduce risk.
- Avoid Dawn and Dusk
Many shark species are more active during early morning and late evening. Plan water activities during daylight hours.
- Stay in Clear Water
Murky or dirty water makes it harder to see sharks and for them to identify you. Stick to clear waters where visibility is good.
- Remove Shiny Objects
Jewellery and watches can reflect light, resembling fish scales, which might attract sharks. Leave these items onshore.
- Avoid Areas with Fishing Activity
Steer clear of places where people are fishing or where there are schools of fish, as these can draw sharks.
- Be Cautious Near Sandbars and Drop-offs
Sharks often patrol areas with sudden depth changes. Stay away from steep drop-offs and the edges of sandbars.
- Refrain from Excessive Splashing
Splashing can mimic the movements of distressed prey, potentially attracting sharks. Keep movements smooth and avoid unnecessary splashing.
- Use Shark Deterrent Devices
Consider using personal shark deterrent devices, such as the Ocean Guardian FREEDOM+ Surf, which have shown effectiveness in reducing shark interactions.
- Follow Local Advisories
Pay attention to local warnings and beach closures. Lifeguards and local authorities provide valuable information about recent shark sightings and conditions.
Conclusion
Lance Appleby was a young man who loved surfing and the sea. His loss was a big shock to many people in South Australia. His story reminds us how important it is to stay safe in the ocean. Lance Appleby will always be remembered by his family, friends, and community.
