Hannah Mighall

Hannah Mighall
Born c. 1995 (age 16–17)
Scamander, Tasmania
Nationality Australian
Known for Surviving shark attack

Hannah Mighall (born circa 1995), is a resident of Scamander, Tasmania, who is notable for surviving an attack from a five meter (16.4 ft) great white shark.[1]

On January 11, 2009, Hannah was surfing in Binalong Bay, near St Helens, when the shark bit through her surfboard, latching onto her leg. With help from her 33 year old cousin Syb Mundy, she was able to fight the shark off and ride a wave back to shore.[2] The attack was widely covered in newspapers, and even referenced on the January 16, 2009, episode of Saturday Night Live.

Hannah has recovered from the incident and as of March 2009 has resumed surfing.[3]

On January 20, 2009, Hannah was awarded a Medal of Courage from Paul Watson, founder and president of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society.[4]

References

  1. ^ "Shark victim Hannah Mighall gave rescuer courage". The Australian (News Limited). 2009-01-12. http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,24900693-12377,00.html. Retrieved 2009-08-09. 
  2. ^ Reynolds, Fiona (2009-01-12). "How Hannah, 13, fought off a shark". Sydney Morning Herald (Fairfax Media). http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/hannahs-ordeal/2009/01/12/1231608566053.html. Retrieved 2009-08-09. 
  3. ^ "Shark attack victim back in the water". ABC News (American Broadcasting Company). 2009-03-22. http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/03/22/2522894.htm?site=news. Retrieved 2009-08-09. 
  4. ^ "Medal for Courage Given to Hannah Mighall". Sea Shepherd News (Sea Shepherd Conservation Society). 2009-01-20. http://www.seashepherd.org/news-and-media/news-090120-2.html. Retrieved 2009-08-09.