Missing fisherman pulled overboard by massive shark: police

Police have revealed missing fisherman Paul Barning was entangled in his own fishing line and not wearing a life jacket when he fell overboard during a fishing competition on Sunday.The 58-year-old was pulled into the water about 1pm on Sunday while taking part in the Game Fishing Association state tournament off the Port Stephens coast near Newcastle, sparking a major search effort.In a press conference on Monday afternoon, NSW Police Superintendent Joe McNulty said police believed the vessel was reeling in a mako shark when Mr Barning became entangled in the fishing line.“After the entanglement we believe the shark has submerged, pulling the man into that water,” he said.“We believe the shark was quite large.“Their vessel was only 6.8m in length.”Superintendent McNulty said the outcome may have been different if the experienced fisherman had been wearing a life jacket.“Tragically, that might have assisted in his recovery if he’d had a life jacket on,” he said.“Unfortunately, at this time, he has not been recovered.”He confirmed the search for Barning was ongoing, and there was no evidence the shark attacked the man.Superintendent McNulty said water temperatures between 25C and 27C and fast currents had brought more marine life to the area, making the search challenging.He stressed the importance of taking safety precautions on the water.“Doesn’t matter how experienced you are, how long you’ve been fishing, please wear a life jacket,” he said.“It’s just a safety message that we really need to get out to all members of the boating community.”The NSW Game and Fishing Association paid tribute to Barning in a statement, describing him as a “loved and revered” member of their community.“Paul Barning, current secretary, past president and life member of Port Hacking Game Fishing Club was a highly experienced game fisherman,” NSW GFA president Steve Lamond said on Monday.“He was tragically lost at sea in the most unlikely of cir...