The Horrifying Death Of Shirley Ann Durdin In One Of History’s Worst Shark Attacks
Wikimedia CommonsDurdin was brutally killed by a great white shark on March 4, 1985.
As of 2025, 24 people have been victims of shark attacks along South Australia’s shores. However, few stories are as terrifying as the tragic case of Shirley Ann Durdin.
Durdin, who was 33 years old, was planning to go snorkeling in Peake Bay, South Australia. Joined by her friends and family nearby, she planned on looking for scallops in these picturesque waters. As she dove in on March 4, 1985, she had no idea what was in the water alongside her.
The waters were reportedly calm at first, but in an instant, everything changed. Suddenly, a 20-foot great white shark charged at her. The shark bit her in half with one blow.
Wikimedia CommonsApproximately 24 people have fallen victim to shark attacks along South Australia’s coast.
Horrifyingly, Durdin was beyond saving, as her friends, husband, and children helplessly looked on. Her headless torso could be seen floating in the water, but even that too was soon taken by the shark.
After the attack, officials searched the bay for any signs of her remains. Unfortunately, there was nothing left to be found.
Durdin’s death made a great impact in the local community. Not only did it serve as a reminder how quickly things can change, but it caused many locals to fear going back into the water. Some even called for shark culling, or the deliberate killing of sharks by the government.
