Devastating incident occurs at Ethel Beach in Innes National Park

The surfing community mourns the loss of 15-year-old Khai Cowley, a talented teenage surfer, who was tragically killed in a shark attack at Ethel Beach in Innes National Park, Australia.

The incident unfolded on Thursday, December 28, as Khai’s leg was bitten off by the shark while he was practicing his surf skills with his father.

Witnesses describe the horrific scene, recounting that the shark attacked Khai, and his father, devastated, watched as another local surfer paddled out to assist.

Despite efforts to bring Khai to shore, the injuries proved fatal, leaving the community in shock and sorrow.

Khai, ranked 146th among under 18 surfers in Australia, had a promising future in the sport. Surfing South Australia expressed deep condolences, stating, “We are devastated to learn that a young, talented and dearly loved member of our surfing community … was the surfer involved in the attack at Ethel Beach, and are absolutely shattered to hear that the incident was fatal.”

A GoFundMe page has been set up in Khai’s memory to support his family in covering the funeral expenses. The community has rallied around the cause, expressing sympathy and solidarity during this difficult time.