Fisherman Killed By Shark

Heroic Rescue by Son

Papeete, Feb. 10.

A CRUEL tragedy occurred at sea, off the coast of Moorea, on February 3, by which Marama Tane, a well known fisherman, lost his life.

Marama, with his son and some other natives, left Moorea for the fishing grounds. Marama had a line out over the stern. Suddenly a large tuna took the bait. The sharp jerk overbalanced Marama, and he fell into the sea.

Immediately, he was attacked by a large shark, which lacerated his thigh and arms.

There were some bonito in the launch; and, as the boat circled, these were thrown out. The shark left the man, and went for the fish; and Marama’s son then sprang overboard, and brought his help less father to the surface, and they were hauled aboard.

The launch set out immediately for Tahiti, and Marama was rushed to hos pital in Papeete. Blood transfusions were given, but it was too late—Marama died in hospital from shock and loss of blood during the journey.

Two War Damage Commission officials from Papua-New Guinea were visitors to Sydney on business at the beginning of the month —Messrs. E, A. James and A.

Richards. Mr. K. A. P. Dwyer, of the same department, was also in Sydney on leave, and departed for New Guinea at the end of March.