Shark Attack Victim Shares Images of Shocking 10 Inch Thigh Scar from Attack by Great White: ‘No Hard Feelings’

Shark Attack Victim Reveals Encounter with Great White and Shares Images​

Lee Berryman, a shark attack survivor, recently disclosed that he was attacked by a Great White shark despite initially thinking it was a Bronze Whaler shark. The incident occurred at D’Estrees Bay, Kangaroo Island, Australia, on October 7. South Australia Police had confirmed earlier that Berryman had sustained two bites and had driven himself to the hospital post-attack.

The revelation came to light on November 4 when Shark Watch South Australia posted on Facebook that Berryman had clarified being bitten by a Great White shark instead of a Bronze Whaler as he had believed previously. The attack reportedly left a 10-inch scar on Berryman’s thigh. According to Berryman, the shark’s “bronze complexion” had misled him into thinking it was a Bronze Whaler, but he later realised that Great Whites can also have a similar appearance.

The non-profit organization, Shark Watch South Australia, mentioned in their initial post that Berryman’s thigh wound measured over 10 inches, indicating the shark may have been around 3 metres long. Berryman, who has been surfing at D’Estrees Bay for 43 years, also noted that his surfboard bore tooth marks wider than those of a Bronze Whaler, aligning more with a Great White’s bite pattern.

Graphic images shared by Berryman displayed his sizeable thigh scar, requiring over 50 stitches, along with extensive bruising from the attack. Despite the harrowing encounter, Berryman expressed no ill will towards sharks, stressing that the ocean predators are not a concern for him and affirming “no hard feelings” post his ordeal.

Post-incident, Berryman recounted his struggle with the shark, narrating how he fought back when the shark initially grabbed him while swimming. He acknowledged the presence of seals in the vicinity during the attack, noting their playful interaction as he swam towards the shore, ultimately reaching safety.

Currently on the road to recovery, Berryman is reported to be mobile but unable to endure prolonged sitting due to his injuries. Shark Watch South Australia plans to feature Berryman in a special public broadcast, emphasising his resilience and deep-rooted connection with the ocean despite the traumatic event.

Incidents like Berryman’s serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife encounters, urging individuals to remain vigilant and cautious in their interactions with marine creatures. Berryman’s courageous response to the attack underscores the importance of maintaining respect and understanding towards the diverse inhabitants of our oceans.

As the community rallies around Berryman and his road to recovery, his story stands as a testament to human resilience in the face of adversity. The incident sheds light on the need for continued awareness and education regarding shark safety and coexistence, fostering a harmonious relationship between humans and marine life.