Port Pirie Regional Council, Media Release, 10 July 2023
The Port Pirie Visitor Information Centre is celebrating 25 years since Shakka the Shark became a local tourist attraction and icon with an event this Wednesday and complimentary entry throughout the school holidays.
Shakka is a 5.5 metre Great White Shark which tragically became entangled in snapper lines and drowned in Germein Bay on 12 July, 1998. Wallaroo fisherman Craig Fletcher brought her ashore, where about 2000 people were waiting to see her. An autopsy conducted in Adelaide played a vital role in establishing the accidental nature of the shark’s demise, in light of the Australian Federal Government’s recent legislation (enacted 12 months prior), which prohibited the capture of Great White Sharks. Notably, the autopsy was attended by Peter Benchley, author of the book “Jaws”.
Although preserving the shark itself proved unfeasible, Port Pirie Regional Council sought to immortalise this monumental creature by commissioning a life-sized model. Jo Bain, a 3D designer from the South Australian Museum, undertook the task of meticulously crafting the model, ensuring that every detail was faithfully replicated.
The community participated in a competition to name the model of the shark, and the winning entry was “Shakka the Shark”. The “Shakka the Shark” exhibition officially opened in the Port Pirie Visitor Information Centre on 22 November 2003. The exhibition showcases the life-size model of the shark, along with her original teeth, jaws and pectoral fin, and an array of other fascinating artifacts.
In honour of this significant milestone, the Port Pirie Visitor Information Centre invites residents and visitors alike to join us for Shakka’s Anniversary Celebration on Wednesday 12 July from 1pm- 4pm.
Prepare to be amazed as we unveil an exhilarating new addition to our Virtual Reality experience – the VR adventure, “Cocos Island.” Immerse yourself in a captivating underwater paradise as you join a team of researchers and scientists exploring the depths during feeding time. Dive into this cutting- edge VR experience and witness the awe-inspiring world of sharks like never before.
As part of the anniversary celebration on the day, enjoy complimentary entry to the Shakka exhibition, free giveaways for the kids and take advantage of a special buy one-get-one-free offer on the VR experience.
For those unable to attend the anniversary celebration, we extend an open invitation to experience the Shakka exhibit free of charge throughout the school holidays, from Saturday 8 July to Sunday 23 July. Whether you are a local resident or a traveller passing through, this is an exceptional opportunity to explore and appreciate Shakka’s legacy.
Join as these school holidays as we remember and celebrate Shakka the Shark!
