By William Ton

The search for a surfer seen taken by a shark has ended without his body being found.

Port Lincoln man Lance Appleby, 28, was attacked by a shark at Granites Beach on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula just after 7pm on Thursday, according to witnesses.

Local and water police, STAR Group officers, and local marine rescue and State Emergency Service volunteers have been scouring the area for Mr Appleby over the past four days, and drones have been deployed to assist their operations.

Police on Sunday announced the search for Mr Appleby had ended.

“Police with the assistance of SES, Country Fire Service, council members including the Mayor, and locals have searched the area over the past four days but sadly have not yet located his body,” the force said.

“Police would like to thank all those who assisted during the tragic incident. A report will be prepared for the state coroner.”

Family friend and shark fisherman Jeff Schmucker had issued a warning on social media hours before Mr Appleby was attacked, after a great white was spotted in the area.

Mr Appleby was a carpenter who Mr Schmucker described as a “good, sporty kid from a big family, and had a big heart”.

“He was a good surfer and footballer, and definitely cherished by all his mates,” he said.

“Lance grew up with my children and they went to school together, we knew him well. My kids just love him. They just had a great time growing up. He was always just part of the gang.”

Mr Schmucker has called on authorities to authorise a destruction order for the shark because “(Mr Appleby’s) family and community need closure”.

There were six shark attacks in eight months on the SA coast in 2023, three of which were fatal.

White sharks are protected in all South Australian waters and those who take, harm, or harass the animal face fines of up to $20,000.

Shark mitigation and improved first aid responses were announced in November in partnership with Surf Life Saving SA, with the state allocating $500,000 to reducing the risk of shark attacks.