Australian, Mick Fanning donates $75,000 TV fee to injured surfer in NSW shark attack.

The three - times champion was interviewed on Channel Nine's 60 minutes about the news that his fellow surfer and friend Mathew Lee had suffered a vicious attack by a great white shark. After the interview it was reported that fanning will donate the $75,000 television appearance fee to Mathew , who was attacked by the shark in Ballina early last month.

It is just over two weeks now since Mick Fanning survived a very precarious 
encounter with a shark himself.  Although Fanning walked away relatively unscathed from his encouter, Lee was less fortunate and has had extensive surgery . It is reported that he suffered serious nerve damage in both lower legs. He remains at the Gold Coast University hospital.

Nine network chief executive, David Gyngell,  pledged a further $25,000 to Lee for his ongoing treatment.

Lee’s family posted their thanks on A Facebook page set up to support Mathew. At the time of writing the Facebook page has over 4600 likes.

“Mick Fanning and David Gyngell,” also posted  the following on the Facebook page - “No words can describe how grateful we are for the generous donation.”

Five weeks after the  attack, Mathews partner Suzy Gerada posted a Facebook update on his condition in hospital. The statement read ....

'He suffered major nerve damage which has been operated on but at this stage it is still unclear what the impact will be on his long term rehabilitation', the photo captioned.

'He has also been recovering from infection associated with his injuries.'

'It is hoped that in the not too distant future Mat will be admitted to Ballina Hospital to commence rehabilitation. '