Tragic Story of Paul Barning: Father Pulled Into the Ocean by a Shark in Australia

Eight months ago, Paul Barning, a 58-year-old fisherman, was tragically pulled into the Pacific Ocean by a shark while participating in a sport fishing competition off the coast of Australia. The shocking incident left the local community in disbelief, and questions still remain unanswered as his body was never recovered. Recently, the local coroner shared details about Barning’s final moments.

The Tragic Day: February 23

On Sunday, February 23, Paul Barning competed in the New South Wales Game Fishing Association (NSWGFA) Interclub State Championships at Port Stephens, according to the Coroner’s Court of New South Wales in Lidcombe.

Early that morning, Paul set out on his boat with his longtime friend Bradley Elphinstone, Bradley’s son Reece Elphinstone, and another man named Ryan Hope. The day began like any other fishing trip, but by around 12:40 p.m. local time, tragedy struck.

Ryan Hope caught a massive Mako shark, weighing over 400 pounds. As he began to reel in the enormous catch, Paul stood to his left, Reece positioned slightly behind him to assist, while Bradley steered the boat to follow the shark as it fought against the line.

The Deadly “Tug-of-War” With the Shark

When the shark approached near the water’s surface, Ryan stepped back, and Reece moved closer to help Paul. Paul grabbed the trace line, wrapping it around each hand at least once, and began a tense tug-of-war with the powerful predator.

However, according to Deputy State Coroner Derek Lee, the shark suddenly moved into deeper waters, pulling the line away from both Paul and Ryan. In a horrifying moment, Paul’s hands were still entwined in the trace line when he shouted words to the effect of, “Oh no,” as he was pulled to the edge of the boat.

When his legs hit the side of the boat, he flipped 180 degrees overboard and was dragged into the water. Bradley immediately put the boat in neutral, and the men began searching frantically for their friend.

Ryan attempted to reel the shark back, hoping Paul was still attached to the line. After approximately 10 minutes, the shark was brought near the surface, but there was no sign of Paul. The group then cut the line and released the shark, realizing their friend was lost.

Search Efforts and Uncertainty

Paul was not wearing a life jacket, and Bradley activated the boat’s GPS “man overboard” function. A multi-agency search was launched, but all efforts ended on February 25 without recovering his body.

During last week’s hearing, the coroner stated that it is believed Paul Barning died on February 23, though the exact cause of death cannot be determined since his body was never found. Coroner Lee concluded in his report:

“Mr. Barning died as a result of misadventure when he was suddenly and unexpectedly pulled into the water whilst managing a trace line during a game fishing competition.”

Paul Barning: Beloved Husband, Father, and Friend

Born in Sydney, Paul Barning was the owner of a construction company and a passionate fisherman. He had won numerous trophies in previous game fishing competitions. Officials described him as:

“A beloved husband and father, a genuine and respected friend, and a skilled fisherman. There is no doubt that he is greatly missed, and the sudden and unexpected circumstances of his disappearance have only added to the grief and trauma experienced by his family, loved ones, and friends.”

Community and NSWGFA Response

Following the incident, the New South Wales Game Fishing Association released a statement expressing condolences and clarifying reports about the incident. The organization emphasized that Paul was not attacked by the shark after falling overboard.

They wrote:

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Leonie, his son Sam, and daughters Eleanor and Brigette during this difficult time.”

The tragic event also serves as a reminder to the fishing community about the risks associated with ocean activities, especially when dealing with large game fish and predatory species like sharks. Wearing a life jacket and adhering to safety protocols are critical, even for experienced anglers.

Remembering Paul Barning

Even eight months after his disappearance, Paul’s family and friends continue to grieve the sudden and unexpected loss. The final moments of Paul, struggling in a life-or-death encounter with a Mako shark, remain etched in their memories.

Those who knew him remember him as a devoted family man, a talented fisherman, and a respected friend. The tragedy left an irreplaceable void in both his family and the broader fishing community in Australia.

Conclusion

The story of Paul Barning is a heartbreaking reminder of life’s fragility and the potential dangers of the natural world, even for those with extensive experience at sea. Though he has been gone for months, the memory of his bravery, skill, and character continues to resonate.

Honoring Paul Barning is not only about remembering a beloved father, husband, and friend, but also about emphasizing safety at sea and the importance of preparation for unexpected encounters in the ocean.