Surfing tool has bite
A GOLD Coast surfer has patented a device designed to give boardriders “a fighting chance” during a shark attack – but marine biologists are not completely sold on the “low tech” idea.
Coastal surveyor Eddie Marquez, 38, has spent the past 12 months designing what is essentially an easy-to-access brain spike in a neoprene holster called the “Bite Back”.
Mr Marquez, who is originally from the US, said he came up with the idea after his board was hit by a shark in his home state of Florida.
“In that situation I just had this feeling of being helpless and defenceless,” Mr Marquez said. “That was the scariest experience I’ve had.”
Mr Marquez said he made a prototype after hearing of surfers carrying screwdrivers and diving knives into the water for protection in California, West Australia and South Australia.
“I thought just a spike with a handle would make a big difference, there was nothing on the market and I thought I had to do this,” he said.
He plans to sell the stainless steel and recycled ocean plastic device for $129.99 per pair.
The device will compete with technology like the Shark Shield which emits electromagnetic pulses designed to deter the predators and costs up to $600.
Mr Marquez, a Mermaid Beach resident, conceded he had not tested the device.
“I haven’t done any sampling or testing on animals but from what we’ve seen with videos of attacks on spear fishermen it’s better than nothing,” he said.
Southern Cross University marine biologist Danny Bucher said surfers and swimmers may not have the presence of mind to use the device during an attack.
“I’m not sure how much opportunity you would have to use it,” Dr Bucher said.
“People tend to go into survival mode and kick and thrash about.”
Dr Bucher added the spike may not frighten a shark.
“It’s low tech, I am a bit doubtful. I've dissected a few sharks in my time and getting through that skin with a knife is hard work,” he said.