A search operation continues for a missing fisherman, as more details emerge in the “freak tragedy” that appears to have claimed his life.
The experienced game fisherman – identified as Paul Barning – has not been seen since he was reportedly dragged overboard while trying to land a mako shark in a recreational competition on Sunday.
The incident happened off about 55 kilometres off Port Stephens, north of Newcastle on the NSW coast.
There were initial reports that Barning had become entangled in fishing line and then fallen overboard. The three other men on board the 6.8-metre boat with Barning were unable to rescue him.
Passengers aboard a recreational fishing vessel reported seeing a person being dragged into the water by a shark.
Barning, a 58-year-old father of three, is from Yowie Bay in Sydney’s Sutherland Shire. He is secretary and a life member of the Port Hacking Game Fishing Club.
On Monday, NSW Game Fishing Association president Steve Lamond, who said he had known Barning for 20 years, dismissed reports of a shark attack. He said the tragedy was rather a “very freak type accident and something that you are not likely to ever see again”.
“Definitely no shark attack, as such, involved,” he said.
“I know that has been reported, so I’d just please like to make that clear.
“It was absolutely just a freak tragedy that has occurred during an attempt to capture a fish.
“It’s never happened before in Australia to my knowledge.”
NSW Police Marine Area Command Commander Superintendent Joe McNulty said later that Barning was a very experienced fisherman. Police believed he became tangled in fishing line as the shark was being brought on board his boat.
“After the entanglement, we believe the shark has submerged, pulling the man into the water … The fishing line would have pulled him under. At no time did that man resurface,” he said.
“There is no evidence to say the shark has attacked a person in the water.”
McNulty said Barning was not wearing a lifejacket.
“Tragically, that might have assisted in his recovery if he had a life jacket on. It’s a safety message for mariners out there – the complacency sets in, [but] it doesn’t matter how experienced you are or how long you have been fishing, wear a lifejacket.”
After Barning fell in the water, the fishing competition was immediately halted. About 40 boats involved joined the search for him, but there has been no sign.
Emergency crews and rescue helicopters continued on Monday to search off the NSW coast where Barning was last seen. McNulty said the search area covered 1500 nautical miles, with the focus due to move south due to strong currents.
Lamond said his thoughts were with Barning’s wife and children.
“This devastating accident highlights the risks involved in doing what we all love, game fishing,” he said.
“Please look out for each other and stay safe.”
-with agencies
Live News
