Family release moving tribute to 'gentle, kind and wonderful' British man killed by shark

In the tribute, they said he "always had time for people" and that they would "miss him terribly".

"Simon was a gentle, kind and wonderful human being," they said.

"He was a cherished fiancée, son, brother, uncle and friend."

They added: "Simon was funny, compassionate and always had time for people.

"He had a rare gift of instantly being able to connect with others, gaining their trust and respect."

Read more: Brit shark attack victim was former RAF serviceman due to marry 'girl of his dreams'

Read more: Russian invasion would 'shock the world' and 'destroy democracy' in Ukraine, warns PM

Mr Nellist, 35, was killed in the first fatal shark attack in Sydney for 60 years.

While he lived in Australia with his fiancée Jessie, he was originally from the west Cornwall village of Ludgvan.

His family said he was a "proud Cornishman" but had made Australia his home.

"Simon had a great passion for nature and the sea, as well as being a very talented photographer," they said.

Emergency services were called to Little Bay 4.35pm on Wednesday following reports a swimmer had been attacked by a shark, believed to be a great white.

They scoured the nearby sea and "located human remains in the water".

The victim was later named as Mr Nellist.

His friend Della Ross told 7News shortly after the attack that Mr Nellist was "one of the people who make this earth lighter".

Read more: New snow warning with thousands still without power as UK begins Storm Eunice clear-up

Read more: Watchdog stopped Captain Sir Tom Moore's daughter being given top role at charity

Another friend told The Sun he was "amazing".

"Simon was amazing," they said.

"That’s all there is to say really.

"He was just the best.

"He was the nicest, kindest human.

"It is a huge loss."