Schools around SA have paid their respects to beloved teacher Simon Baccanello, killed in shark attack

The wider South Australian community has paid their respects and paid tribute to teacher Simon Baccanello after he was taken by a shark at a popular surf break.

Schools and students from around the world have paid tribute to their beloved teacher, Simon Baccanello, after he went missing after being attacked by a shark at Walkers Rocks on Saturday.

Pulteney Grammar School took to Facebook to offer condolences to Simon’s family and friends.

“Simon taught at Pulteney 2007 to 2009 and then again in 2022,” the statement said.

“He is well remembered by the School community as a fine teacher, a generous friend and genuine, authentic human being.”

Johanna Brody, a student of Mr Baccanello’s from his time teaching in Indonesia at Canggu Community school, referred to the teacher as kind and caring.

“He was one of the most kind, caring and inspiring teachers that I’ve ever met,” she told 7NEWS.

Meanwhile, students from Elliston Area School have now returned to school two days after their beloved “Mr B” went missing. Elliston teacher was taken by a shark at a popular surf break.

A newsletter issued by the school referred to the teacher as “beautiful Mr B” and said he had a “deep positive impact” on the community.

Principal Chad Fleming remembered the “adored” teacher, who had worked at the school since January.

Simon Baccanello has been identified as the victim of a shark attack.

Flowers were laid at the beach where Mr Baccanello was attacked. Picture: Riley Walter

Mr Fleming said students at staff at the school would be provided with wellbeing support from Monday.

Mr Baccanello had only joined Elliston Area School in January but Mr Fleming said he had already made his mark on the community.

“This is a tragic loss of a quality educator, valued colleague, and a remarkable man who was a true friend to everyone.’’ Mr Fleming said.

“In his short time at our school, and in our community … he had a sincerely positive impact on us all.

“With his dedication to education and an enthusiastic and positive approach to learning and life, Simon showed care and respect to everyone.

“He was an avid surfer and absolutely loved living the Elliston lifestyle, being a keen fisherman too.

“He was also involved in junior sports, football, and tennis.”

Shark Attack Victim and Elliston Area School teacher Simon Baccanello. Picture: Canggu Community School.

Education Minister Blair Boyer said he had spoken with Elliston Area School principal Chad Fleming to offer his support.

“The circumstances of Saturday’s incident are devastating and my heart goes out to Mr Baccanello’s family and loved ones during this very difficult time,” Mr Boyer said.

“The Education Department has put in place wellbeing supports and the Education Director will be based at the school for the foreseeable future so we can ensure that appropriate supports are in place for Mr Baccanello’s colleagues and students.”

This comes as emergency services have located a piece of wetsuit material and small pieces of surfboard material as part of their search at Walkers Rock.

Police said the items will be forensically analysed.

Searches are expected to continue in the coming days after high tide.