The family of surfer Mercury Psillakis has released a public statement following his tragic death on the weekend, off the Northern Beaches of Sydney.
‘It is with profound sadness that we confirm the tragic loss of Mercury Psillakis, a loving, devoted and ridiculously fun husband, father, son, brother and loyal friend who passed away following a shark attack at Dee Why on Saturday.
‘This is a statement that is so hard to write, as there are no words that can describe the amazing, humourous and beautiful man he is — everyone felt it. There is so much more to say, but it is impossible to describe him with justice in a statement.
‘Merc is deeply loved by everyone who knows him. He was Maria’s soulmate, our best friend and the most loving father to Freedom, his daughter who he is so proud of. Their bond was extraordinary and he always placed his family above everything else. His family meant the world to him.
‘Merc was impossible not to love — his energy was extraordinary and magnetic, his spirit full of fun and he created joy and happiness in every interaction he touched. When he was interested in something, he became completely devoted, excelling in it with passion and focus.
‘He had many hobbies — earning a black belt in Taekwondo, travelling far and wide for surfing and spending endless time with his family, making sure they always felt valued and loved.
‘Merc also had a great passion for rare palms, earning him the nickname “The Germinator” — other members of the palm community would jokingly say he could even germinate a rock — a nod to his extraordinary ability to bring life from even the most unlikely seed.
‘He surfed every day and loved the ocean — it was one of his greatest passions. He was also deeply connected to the surfing community, which has been so kindly supporting us and sharing in this heartbreaking loss.
‘On Saturday, Merc saved his friends in the surf, warning them of the shark nearby. He was aware of the risks of the ocean and while he loved surfing, he was always vigilant about keeping himself safe. Unfortunately, this was a tragic and unavoidable accident.
‘The men who were selfless and courageous by getting Merc out of the surf – we are forever grateful and pray that you get the support you need. We also want to thank the Life Saving Club, Emergency Services and police that have provided invaluable guidance and support during this time – your support will never be forgotten.
‘Merc is and will always be a hero, a loving and devoted husband, father and family man who could bring humour to every situation. We are devastated by this loss, but will forever carry his spirit, energy and joy in our hearts.
‘At this time, we ask for privacy as our family grieves this unimaginable loss. This will be the only statement that the family will be releasing.
‘Thank you to everyone who provided support at the scene on Saturday and thereafter, we have felt a lot of love during this very difficult time. Maria, Freedom and family.’
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