Terrifying moment surfers paddle for their lives as a four-metre shark hunts them

These shocking images taken by a surf photographer in Perth, Australia, shows a four-metre long shark cutting through the water as a group of terrified surfers desperately try to paddle to safety after they realized what they were sharing the surf with.

Rick Knoppert, the photographer who captured the incredible pictures at popular surfing spot Mettams pool, said that he was there to snap big waves and never thought he would capture such a close-call on camera.

Rick who spoke to WA Today said:

“There was no surf around. Then I saw the guys making a beeline for the beach. I thought that was strange so I started photographing and lo and behold, this is what I got. 

“It was all over in five minutes. It was exciting for the guys surfing , they got really buzzed.”

Rick sent the scary snaps to the Department of Fisheries which estimated the beast to be up to four metres long. And while the shark’s breed could not be determined, the photographer believes it could be a bronze whaler following a number of sightings in the area in recent weeks.

Rick also believes the shark didn’t pose any danger to the surfers. he said:

“It was chasing fish around. At one point, a big fish jumped up in front of it – I didn’t get that shot, unfortunately.”

More photos below...

The surfers return to shore elated from the experience while beach goers try to snap the shark