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Tiger shark identified as likely killer in NSW attack

· Shark attack victim Zac Young mourned

A three-metre tiger shark was responsible for the attack that killed NSW surfer Zac Young, an expert says.

Marine Biologist Amy Smoothey has completed a detailed forensic analysis of Mr Young’s wounds. The 19-year-old was attacked while surfing at Coffs Harbour on the NSW north coast on Saturday.

Dr Smoothey’s study included an analysis of the jaw width, which was compared to the three main predatory shark species in the area. Dr Smoothey on Monday concluded a three-metre tiger shark was responsible.

It fits the description given by Mr Young’s mates, who bravely struggled with the shark when it attacked him.

They dragged him to the shore and started CPR, but the talented surfer and photographer died from heavy blood loss from massive injuries to his legs.

Mr Young’s father Kevin revealed to a crowd at a memorial service on Sunday that his son told his friends “I love you” as they tried to save him.

Coffs Harbour Mayor Denise Knight said Mr Young’s death was a shock to the community.

“The community will always pull together in, particularly, regional areas,” she told Macquarie Radio on Monday.

Mr Young’s death follows a fatal shark attack at Gracetown in Western Australia last weekend.

Local beaches, which were closed on Sunday, were scheduled to reopen on Monday. The reopening comes after hundreds of friends and family of the 19-year-old, gathered at Grace Church at Port Macquarie on Sunday to pay tribute to the much-loved teen.

Memorial

Zac Young was remembered as a talented surfer and photographer and intern with a Christian organisation called Youth for Christ.

One of his friends, who struggled with the shark before dragging Mr Young onto the shore on Saturday said it was the scariest thing he had ever been through.

“I can’t believe he is gone,” Lindsy Isaac told media at the memorial.

Mr Young’s father Kevin revealed that his son told his friends “I love you” as they tried to save him.

Coffs Harbour Mayor Denise Knight said Mr Young’s death was a shock to the community.

“The community will always pull together in, particularly, regional areas,” she told Macquarie Radio on Monday.

Mr Young’s death follows a fatal shark attack at Gracetown in Western Australia last weekend.

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