Luke Walford killed after shark attack while fishing with family on Humpy Island

A 40-year-old school chaplain who died following a shark attack in Queensland waters has been remembered as an “inspirational leader”.

Luke Walford, 40, has died after a Humpy Island shark attackÂ

The man who died after being bitten on the neck by a shark in waters off the Keppel Islands has been identified.

Luke Walford, 40, succumbed to his severe injuries on Saturday evening after the incident while fishing with his family on Humpy Island.

Paramedics desperately worked to save Mr Walford’s life after he suffered neck wounds when he was bitten by a shark off Humpy Island in The Keppels area, about 20km off the mainland.

Mr Walford, a chaplain at Heights College, was remembered by friends online as a “gentle soul” who would be “sorely missed”.

“RIP Luke, such a tragedy,” Melissa Kelly wrote.

“Your love of children shone through. You were amazing with both of our sons during their school years, helping them through some tough times.

“I will be forever grateful for everything you did for them.”

“This is absolutely devastating news to wake up to,” Deanna Mortensen said.

“He was the loveliest, kindest and most God-loving man.

“Such a sad loss to our beautiful community.”

“He was honestly one of the kindest, most passionate and inspiring people I have ever known,” Kaitlyn Sorensen wrote.

“His impact on so many will never be erased.”

A man has died following a shark bite incident in waters off Humpy Island.

He joined the Pastoral Team at Cathedral of Praise in 2015, and became a Youth Pastor in 2022.

Heights College penned a tribute to their chaplain on Sunday, praising him as a spiritual leader and role model.

“How can words capture the impact one person has had on so many lives over more than a decade, it is impossible. This loss leaves a profound void in the heart of our Heights College community and beyond,” a school spokesman wrote.

“Chappy Luke, as he was known as, was not just a spiritual leader but also a role model for our young people. He was a living example of humility, kindness, and unwavering faith.

“Whether it was on the handball court, at the chess table, or simply chatting with students during lunch sharing his wealth of wisdom, he always made time for them. His ability to connect with every individual, regardless of age or background, was truly remarkable.

“He walked beside our students, not just guiding them in their faith journey but also inspiring them to embrace life’s challenges with courage and hope, always being available and approachable.

“In his presence, you felt seen, valued, and encouraged. He reminded us of the power of faith and the importance of relationships. His laughter, wisdom, and boundless energy will forever echo in the halls of our school and the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.

“As we grieve this heartbreaking loss, we hold onto the legacy he leaves behind — a legacy of love, faith, and selfless service.

“The College has provided information to our community how they can access counselling, if they needed it.

“We as a college will continue to pray for the family, his wife Kayelene, his mother Linda and his sisters Liana Graham and Kristy Valler, and their wider families.”

Luke Walford was a Youth Pastor at Cathedral of Praise Rockhampton. Picture: Facebook

Cathedral of Praise paid tribute to their pastor saying he was a “truly beloved figure”.

“It’s with deep sorrow that we share the tragic news of Pastor Luke Walford’s passing,” the church said in a social media post.

“Last night, we learned that he was attacked by a shark while doing something he loved—spearfishing, a passion that was passed down to him by his father.

“I’ve had the privilege of watching Luke grow from a child to a remarkable young man. I dedicated him as a baby, and over the last 10 to 13 years, I’ve witnessed his incredible contributions as part of our church staff. He was truly a beloved figure, especially among our young people, children, and the entire congregation.”

The church offered its prayers to Mr Walford’s family, especially his wife, his mother, and all his relatives.

“We ask God to strengthen them, provide them with peace, and bring them through this unimaginable time. Please continue to lift them up in prayer as they navigate the days ahead,” it said.

“Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in the promises of God. We know that Luke is now with the Lord, resting in His presence because of God’s exceedingly great and precious promises. Luke was a man who truly loved God and loved people. Today, we rejoice that he is in the arms of his Savior.”

Locals have showed support for a shark cull in the area.

The incident occurred at 4.37pm Saturday.

Police confirmed the man tragically died from his injuries just before 6.00pm on the December 28.

A Queensland Police Service spokesman said the 40-year-old man had been fishing with family members when he was bitten by a shark.

It’s understood Mr Walford was in the water at the time of the fatal attack.

Police will prepare a report for the coroner.

The day after the fatal shark attack, Keppel Island is in full swing.

The sun is out, and hundreds of families are out swimming and diving.

To anybody unaware of the news, it would seem to be a normal day.

Humpy Island sits mere kilometres from the larger Great Keppel Island, which is host to luxury accommodation, bars and restaurants.

Tropical Vibes owner Shane Bonney said he was supportive of shark culling.

“I’ve been on this island for over 12 years now and I’ve been noticing there’s more and more sharks every day.”

“I’m a master 4 mariner, and we can’t even get our fish up because there’s so many sharks.”

“We used to be able to catch them for food... we need to start culling them.”

Luke Walford, 40, has died after a Humpy Island shark attackÂ

LNP Member for Rockhampton Donna Kirkland posted a tribute to Mr Walford on Facebook.
“Yesterday our community lost a wonderful man in tragic circumstances.”

“A family friend, not only to my own family but countless others. He was an inspirational leader as a children’s and youth pastor.

“We are all very much still in shock.

“My prayers and heartfelt condolences are with his beautiful family and indeed the many who will be devastated, as I am, at this news.”

On Saturday afternoon, a Queensland Ambulance Service spokeswoman confirmed paramedics were treating a man in his 40s with critical injuries following a shark attack.

The paramedics were flown to Humpy island camping area, which is in the Keppel Bay Islands National Park, via a helicopter.

Originally published as Luke Walford killed after shark attack while fishing with family on Humpy Island