The friends of a man who is recovering in hospital after being attacked by a shark last week on the NSW north coast have shared a light hearted snap the show how much his best mate misses him.
Bodyboarder Mathew Lee was mauled by a four-meter shark off Lighthouse Beach in Ballina on July 2 and after undergoing emergency surgery the 32-year-old remains at a Gold Coast hospital.
On a Facebook page which has been set up to keep people updated with Mr Lee’s condition a photo of his dog Penny was shared to show how eager she is for her owner to come home safe and sound.
“Miss you dad and can’t wait to see you! Sloppy dog kisses! Penny x,” the caption of the message read.
Following his attack Mr Lee was dragged from the water by two brave mates who used leg ropes as tourniquets to stop the surfer from losing too much blood. It is reported that a great white was spotted in the area close to where the attack occurred.
Mr Lee, pictured with his partner Suzy Gerada. PHOTO: Facebook.
In the days since the incident a spokesperson for Mr Lee has written on the page to thank people for their support.
“We want to say a big thank you to the community for the amazing love and support sent to Mat and his family during this tragic situation and want you to know it is very much appreciated by all involved!” a message read.
Andrew Bremner, Mr Lee and his partner Suzy Gerada’s neighbour, told reporters Mr Lee went surfing most mornings and often he would take Penny with him.
“Sometimes he takes his dog with him and then he would come back with a few mates at lunch time and they would just chill,” Mr Bremner said.
There have been two fatal shark attacks in the area since 2008 and following Mr Lee’s attack on Thursday MP Chris Gulaptis told the ABC that installing shark nets might be worth considering.
“Now with the high frequency rate of attacks, I think we need to consider all options,” Mr Gulaptis said.
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