On 15 August 2022, 17-year-old Luke Pascoe was bitten by a shark while spearfishing near Mistaken Island, south of Albany, Western Australia. His friend Conner Shirley helped him swim to shore, improvised bleeding control with his dive belt, carried him about 2 kilometres across rocks to their car and drove him to hospital. Luke believed the shark was a roughly 5-metre great white, but the reports did not confirm its species or size.
What happened near Mistaken Island?
Luke Pascoe was spearfishing near Mistaken Island, close to Goode Beach and Albany, on Monday 15 August 2022. ABC reported that he had shot a fish and was surfacing from about 10 metres underwater when he was bitten. Luke believed the shark was a great white about 5 metres long; that identification and measurement were not independently confirmed in the reports.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Conner Shirley later told PerthNow he had looked around because he knew sharks had been seen in the area. When he turned back toward Luke, he saw the attack. He described the moment as “like out of a movie” and said he initially thought he was imagining it.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsHow did Conner Shirley help his friend?
The two friends swam roughly 50 metres toward nearby rocks. Conner reached shore about 30 seconds before Luke, then helped him out of the water. He used his dive belt to improvise a tourniquet, carried Luke piggyback across about 2 kilometres of rocky ground to their car, and drove him to Albany Health Campus.
#1 Best Overall
- Soft Foam Construction Classic Surfboard, strong EPS core with 3 stringer system
- Soft WBS-IXL ( Water Barrier Skin ) crosslink top deck and rails High Density (HDPE) Polyethylene slick bottom skin Exclusive New Color Graphic art deck
- Included removable bolt thru fins ankle leash traction pad
- Dimensions 8' x 22 1/2" x 3 1/4" Weight 11.5 lbs
- Volume 86 liters
Conner told ABC, “First aid at school actually taught me a couple of things.” This recounts what he did in an emergency; it is not guidance to use a dive belt as a medical tourniquet.
What injuries did Luke sustain?
ABC reported three lacerations to Luke’s lower legs, including deep wounds to his knee and shin. PerthNow reported that he underwent two emergency operations and was expected to need further surgery at the time. Those reports describe his condition in August 2022, not a current medical update.
Rank #2
- [Enhanced Control with Detachable Fins]: Engineered for agility and control, this surfboard features a tri-fin setup that boosts maneuverability and directional stability. Whether you're carving through waves or maintaining balance on turns, the fins enhance responsiveness. After use, you can simply detach the fins for more compact storage and hassle-free transport.
- [Premium Materials for Optimal Performance]: Ride confidently on our slip-resistant EPE deck, offering exceptional grip and impact-resistant durability. The PP bottom reduces drag for faster gliding, while dual integrated fiberglass rods provide core reinforcement—ensuring responsive speed and long-lasting resilience in diverse water conditions.
- [Great for All Skill Levels]: With its generously sized 72"x20"x3" platform, this foam surfboard delivers enhanced buoyancy for effortless balance and easier takeoffs. Complete with a safety ankle leash, the beginner board accommodates teenagers and adults, making it perfect for beginners, surfing enthusiasts, family sharing, or as a reliable backup board.
- [Lightweight & Versatile Design]: At just 4.9 lbs, this surfboard can be effortlessly transported to beaches, surf breaks, or water yoga sessions. Its vibrant aesthetics command attention on the waves, ideal for both safety and style. After its surfing life, creatively repurpose the board as striking wall decor or a functional outdoor rack, extending its utility and value beyond the water.
- [Hassle-Free Setup & Reliable Support]: Get wave-ready in seconds with our tool-free fin installation, and ensure the best fit by checking dimensions before purchase. Designed to securely support riders up to 110 lbs, this board is backed by our dedicated customer service team, guaranteeing your complete satisfaction from the initial use to all your future adventures.
Was the shark confirmed to be a great white?
No confirmed species or length appears in the cited reports. The careful description is a suspected great white, or a shark Luke believed was roughly 5 metres long. The people interviewed said the fish Luke had shot may have attracted the shark, but its reason for approaching was not established.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →What did officials say about reporting shark incidents?
In an ABC follow-up published 17 August 2022, DPIRD Shark Response Unit manager Graeme Meinema urged people to report sightings and incidents immediately to Water Police, saying the initial public report supported the mitigation response. ABC reported that the public alert for Luke’s incident was broadcast at midday on Tuesday, the day after the Monday attack.
Rank #3
- Soft foam construction// EPS core with 3 Stringer System
This is historical context, not a live warning. For current conditions near Albany, check the official SharkSmart WA alert page and follow any active closures and reporting instructions.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How is this different from the 2026 Michaelmas Island incident?
A separate serious shark incident was reported at Michaelmas Island on 6 June 2026. The SharkSmart notice described a suspected 4.5-metre shark and a male diver. It was a different event from Luke Pascoe’s nonfatal 2022 attack near Mistaken Island; the incidents should not be conflated.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Soft Foam Construction Classic Surfboard, strong EPS core with 3 stringer system
- Soft WBS-IXL ( Water Barrier Skin ) crosslink top deck and rails High Density (HDPE) Polyethylene slick bottom skin Exclusive New Color Graphic art deck
- Included removable bolt thru fins ankle leash traction pad
- Dimensions 8' x 22 1/2" x 3 1/4" Weight 11.5 lbs
- Volume 86 liters
Sources
- Caitlyn Rintoul, PerthNow, 17 August 2022: “Albany shark attack: Hero friend Conner Shirley recounts nightmare swim to safety”.
- Briana Fiore, Peter Barr and Tim Wong-See, ABC News / ABC Great Southern, 16 August 2022: “Best mate saves teen’s life after shark attack near Mistaken Island off Albany coast”.
- Andrew Collins and John Dobson, ABC News / ABC Great Southern, 17 August 2022: “Albany shark attack prompts authority’s call to report sightings”.
- Government of Western Australia, SharkSmart / DPIRD, 6 June 2026: “Shark INCIDENT at Michaelmas Island, Albany”.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Leave a Reply