The family of Mercury Psillakis, the 57-year-old surfer killed in a shark attack at Long Reef Beach on Sydney's Northern Beaches on Saturday, has remembered him as a 'hero' and a 'loving and devoted husband'. In a statement released on Tuesday, they described him as a 'ridiculously fun husband, father, son, brother and loyal friend'.
Mr Psillakis, affectionately known as 'Merc', suffered catastrophic injuries after being bitten by what is believed to have been a white shark. The incident occurred hours before Father's Day, leaving behind his wife Maria and their daughter Freedom. His family said he was 'Maria's soulmate' and 'the most loving father to Freedom'.
The family noted that Mr Psillakis was always aware of the risk of shark attacks but remained vigilant. 'On Saturday, Merc saved his friends in the surf, warning them of the shark nearby,' they said. He was described as a man with many hobbies, including a black belt in Taekwondo, surfing, and a passion for rare palms, earning him the nickname 'The Germinator'.
Days after the attack, a tagged white shark was spotted off Manly Beach. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development's Shark Smart service detected the tag on Monday, estimating the shark to be 2.5-2.7 metres in length, smaller than the 3.4-3.6 metre shark believed to have been involved in the fatal incident.
The family expressed gratitude to emergency services, the surf lifesaving club, and the surfing community for their support. They also thanked the men who 'selfless and courageous' brought Mr Psillakis out of the surf. 'We are devastated by this loss, but will forever carry his spirit, energy and joy in our hearts,' the statement concluded.
