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'All a bad dream': Family heartbroken after snorkeller 'taken by shark'

The family of a Victorian dad who is believed to have been killed by a shark in South Australia has paid tribute to him as a “cheerful, loving, helpful son”.

Duncan Craw, 32, went snorkelling in waters off Port Macdonnell southeast of Adelaide on Thursday and never returned, with police contacted to try and find him about 5pm local time.

On Thursday evening police found damaged flippers and on Friday morning a wetsuit believed to belong to Mr Craw was located.

“Police suspect the Victorian man has been the victim of a shark attack, after PolAir spotted a shark in the area yesterday afternoon,” police said.

Duncan Craw is pictured with his wife Taylia and son Levi.
Duncan Craw, 32, is believed to have died after being attacked by a shark in South Australia. Source: Supplied

The air and sea search is now being scaled back.

On Friday, Mr Craw’s family said they “wish this was all a bad dream”.

“It’s also impossible to fully explain the hole this will leave behind in the lives of all the relatives and friends who love Duncan,” his family said.

“He was a cheerful, loving, helpful son. He was a kind and cheeky brother to his sisters. He was a fun-loving, mischievous and supportive mate who had a heart of gold.

“We will never forget Duncan and we will make sure his memory lives on.”

Rescuers search for a man at Port Macdonnell.
Rescuers search for Mr Craw. Source: Prime7

Mr Craw was on a holiday with his wife Taylia and their son Levi.

Limestone Coast Police operations manager Campbell Hill told reporters Mr Craw’s death was “simply tragic and shocking”.

Police are yet to find any remains and believe it’s possible they never will.

A report is being prepared for the coroner.

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