Skipper honours lost canine companion

Devastated skipper Franz Van Derpoll has touched the hearts of people around the country with the story of his faithful companion Sky, a little dog who was eaten by a shark four miles from Point Samson.

Mr Van Derpoll said although he was devastated by Sky's passing, this was not a story with an unhappy ending.

"Sky's death was tragic but it shows there is still love in this world that should be shared," he said.

"Money is not important, love is everything. There is no amount of money I wouldn't give to have her back."

Mr Van Derpoll said he would cherish the two beautiful years he had with Sky.

"After my wife Mary died, Sky became the most important person in my life - they were such similar people," he said.

"Is it possible a man can love a dog as much as a lifelong partner of 36 years? Well, for me, Sky was the second love of my life," he said.

"I like to think they are both living up on a cloud somewhere looking down on me and laughing about the love we shared.

"I've had a funny old life and when the time is right I will find another dog."

Mr Van Derpoll placed a commemorative plaque in the harbour for Sky on Sunday.