ATTACKED BY SHARK

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXX, Issue 21520, 17 June 1933, Page 14

ATTACKED BY SHARK

FIJIAN'S PLUCKY FIGHT | SEVERAL WOUNDS RECEIVED MONSTER DRIVEN OFF [from our own correspondent] SUVA, Juno 13 Shark fatalities are not very frequent in Fijian waters, particularly when the number of natives who dive for fish in shark-infested waters is taken into account. This is attributed locally partly to the fact that the sharks have an abundance of natural food and partly to the dexterity shown by tho natives under water. European fatalities are also rare, for the reason that Europeans do not share the risks that are so freely taken by natives find do not bathe in deep water. An attack by a shark upon a native near Levuka recently illustrates the remarkable dexterity of the native fishermen in the water, dextority which on this occasion also averted a fatality. The native was engaged in diving with goggles and spear, a practice which is known in Fiji as submarining fish. The goggles are used to enable the native to see more clearly under wator when ho dives down under the ledge of the reef where the big fish lie. Once his quarry is,sighted a quick thrust with the spear is generally successful. On the occasion in question the native, who was diving near the main passage off Moturiki, had just speared a fish and it is presumed that the blood from the fish attracted the attention of a fairly large shark which must have been lying under the reef. According to the native's story tho shark suddenly came at him, but just as quickly the Fijian thrust out strongly with tho spear and turned the attack aside. Several rushes were made by tho shark, but each time the Fijian warded it off with his spear, at the same time manoeuvring his way into shallower water, the safety of which he eventually reached rather badly gashed in parts from contact with tho shark. Ho was taken to the Levuka Hospital for attention and is stated to bo making good progress.