'Elevated risk': Margaret River Pro cancelled due to shark attacks
The remainder of the Margaret River Pro surfing competition has been cancelled in the wake of two shark attacks in the South West region this week.
The decision to cancel the rest of the event was announced on Wednesday in a lengthy and detailed statement issued by the World Surfer League (WSL).
The WSL said the "elevated risk during this season's Margaret River Pro had crossed the threshold for what is acceptable".
In the statement WSL chief Sophie Goldschmidt said the "difficult decision" to cancel the remainder of the Margaret River Pro had been made due to exceptional circumstances surrounding sharks and the safety of surfers.
"This decision has been reached after many hours of consultation with a variety of stakeholders and experts," the statement said.
"The WSL puts the highest premium on safety. This cannot be just talk, and it cannot be compromised. Surfing is a sport that carries various forms of risk, and is unique in that wild animals inhabit our performance environment.
"We are painfully aware that this decision will have commercial ramifications for the local community, and will disappoint some of our partners, fans and athletes. We sincerely regret that.
"We appreciate that not everyone will agree with this decision, but hope that they will respect it."
Alex Travaglini was attacked on Monday by what is suspected to be a great white shark at Cobblestones surf break in Gracetown and suffered severe injuries to his legs.
Just hours later another man was bitten by a shark not far from where the first attack occurred.
The recent attacks have sparked renewed calls for shark mitigation strategies, with acting Fisheries Minister Roger Cook saying SMART drum lines were being considered.