# Survivor’s Tale: Escaping Death at Shipstern Bluff
A big-wave specialist, Mikey Brennan, recently recounted his harrowing experience of surviving a massive wipeout at Shipstern Bluff in Tasmania. Shipstern Bluff is a notorious surf spot located on the Tasman Peninsula coastline, known for its giant, slabbing waves that pose a significant risk to surfers. Brennan, a seasoned surfer familiar with the dangers of “Shippies,” found himself in a life-threatening situation when he was engulfed by the massive waves during a surfing session.
## The Terrifying Moment
Brennan was towed onto a wave by a jetski, only to lose control as the wave crashed over him, causing him to disappear from view. In an interview with the Mercury, Brennan expressed his disbelief at still being alive after the terrifying ordeal. He vividly recalled the moment of impact, describing it as a monumental experience that left him feeling helpless as he was tossed by the powerful wave. Despite his best efforts to regain control, Brennan was unable to stick the landing, leading to his descent into the churning waters below.
## Grateful for Safety Protocols
Fortunately, Brennan was rescued from the water by a jetski and taken to safety. He suffered bruised ribs and a minor concussion from the wipeout but escaped any major injuries. Grateful for the safety protocols in place, Brennan acknowledged the swift response of the rescue team and the medical care he received. After undergoing a CT scan and thorough examination by the trauma team at the Royal Hobart hospital, Brennan was relieved to have escaped with minor injuries considering the severity of the wipeout.
Brennan reflected on the moment he went under the wave, admitting to having little recollection of the event and feeling disoriented upon resurfacing. The experience of being knocked unconscious during the wipeout was a stark contrast to his previous encounter with danger while surfing, where he remained conscious throughout. Despite the close brush with death, Brennan remained resolute in his love for the ocean and his determination to return to the water.
## A Brush with Death
This wasn’t the first time Brennan had faced a life-threatening situation while surfing. In 2010, he broke his back while surfing another treacherous wave at Governor Island on the east coast of Tasmania. Reflecting on his past experiences, Brennan acknowledged that the Shipstern wipeout was the closest he had come to death due to the abrupt loss of consciousness. The inherent risks of big-wave surfing were not lost on Brennan, who recognized the fine line between pushing his limits and succumbing to fear in the face of danger.
Despite the inherent dangers of surfing at Shipstern Bluff and other notorious spots, Brennan remained undeterred in his passion for the ocean. He viewed his experiences as a test of courage and resilience, acknowledging the need to confront fear in order to push boundaries and explore the limits of his abilities. The thrill of riding massive waves and conquering the elements fueled Brennan’s determination to continue pursuing his passion for surfing, even in the face of adversity.
As Brennan reflected on his miraculous escape from the jaws of Shipstern Bluff, he expressed gratitude for the support of his fellow surfers and the safety measures that had ensured his survival. The camaraderie and mutual respect shared among surfers in the face of danger underscored the tight-knit community that thrives in the world of big-wave surfing. Brennan’s story serves as a testament to the resilience and courage of those who dare to challenge the forces of nature and push the boundaries of human endurance in pursuit of their passion.
