Family of fisherman lost at sea break their silence as search is called off
The devastated family of a fisherman lost at sea after being pulled overboard while reeling in a shark “have no words” to describe how they are feeling after the search operation was called off.
Paul Barning, 58, went missing while competing in the Game Fishing Association state tournament off the Port Stephens coast, near Newcastle, on Sunday.
His wife Leonie told 7NEWS.com.au the family are grappling with mixed emotions after the search was suspended on Tuesday night but they are extremely grateful to everyone involved.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“We just want to send out a huge thank you to everyone involved in the search and rescue, we were informed every step of the way,” she said.
“And a huge thank you to the whole fishing community. We have been overwhelmed with kindness from everyone.
“Our family meant everything to Paul, he would never hesitate to do the same for anyone else.”
Barning was helping his crew reel in a large mako shark when he became entangled in fishing wire and was dragged into the water as the predator suddenly darted back into the ocean.
Police said there was no evidence the shark attacked Barning.
After a major three-day search, NSW Police called it quits on Tuesday evening.
“Despite the efforts of searchers, the man has not yet been located and the search was suspended at 5pm today and will not resume (on Wednesday),” NSW Police said.
NSW Police Superintendent Joe McNulty said the shark was “quite large” while the boat was only 6.8m long.
It is understood the fisherman was not wearing a life jacket when he went overboard.
“Tragically, that might have assisted in his recovery if he’d had a life jacket on,” McNulty said.
Barning, a father-of-three, was an experienced game fisherman and was the secretary and past president of the Port Hacking Game Fishing Club.
NSW Game and Fishing Association president Steve Lamond has launched a GoFundMe to assist his family during this difficult time.
“As most of you are aware Paul was lost at sea on Sunday during the Interclub game fishing tournament,” he said.
“We are raising funds to assist the family through this tragic time so they can focus on processing their grief.
“Anything you could give to assist will be greatly appreciated.”
Originally published on 7NEWS
