Aussie Tour Guide Fights Off Shark, Drives Himself to Hospital

On a recent afternoon, a 57-year-old Australian tour guide named Lee Berryman was enjoying a surfing session at D'Estrees Bay on Kangaroo Island. However, his leisurely outing quickly turned into a harrowing ordeal when he was attacked by a shark.

As Berryman was paddling back out after catching a wave, he felt something "chomping" on his left thigh. The shark had bitten down, and Berryman immediately started punching and shouting at the animal in an attempt to scare it away. Once the shark released its grip, Berryman began swimming towards the nearby rocks, fearing the shark would return.

Despite the severe bite wounds, Berryman managed to make it to the rocks and then drive himself to the hospital. Doctors determined he needed 50 stitches to treat the multiple bite marks that went up his legs.

Experts say shark attacks on Kangaroo Island are "remarkably rare," but the overall trend across Australia is concerning. Factors like more people in the water, rising temperatures, and habitat loss are contributing to an increase in shark encounters. Authorities are working to improve public safety, including using shark-tracking technology and drones.

Berryman's harrowing experience serves as a reminder of the potential dangers that lurk in the waters, even at popular tourist destinations. His quick thinking and determination to reach safety likely saved his life.