Long scars riddle her upper leg and memorabilia in her room serves as a constant reminder of the 14-year-old's near-death fight with a shark.

Not much has changed for this happy go-lucky teenager.

She's still surfing, swimming and going to school.

But one thing that has changed is her family's outlook on life.

On January 11, 2009, Hannah and her 33-year-old cousin Syb Mundy went surfing off Baileys Rocks at Binalong Bay.

As Hannah was sitting out behind the waves on her surfboard with her cousin, a five-metre shark attacked, dragged her under the water three times, bit her leg twice and took a large chunk out of her board.

Mr Mundy paddled over to Hannah as she tried to fight off the shark, dragged her on to his back and rode a wave to shore.

She was taken to St Helens District Hospital before being flown to the Royal Hobart Hospital for surgery.

Hannah's mother Floss Mighall said it was the worst experience she had ever had and changed the family's perspective on life.

"We used to be quite a conservative family - save money, spend it when we need it and not to waste it on things that are unnecessary," Mrs Mighall said.

"We now realise that you just can't do that, so we live everyday as if tomorrow is not coming."

Since the attack the family has bought a new fishing boat and numerous outdoor toys for family holidays.

Although Hannah said she did not understand the new life goals of her parents, she was glad that she was alive to experience it.

"I still think about it a little, especially when I'm in the water, but some days are better than others," Hannah said.

The bedroom in her Scamander home is full of memories of January 11, 2009.

Posters of the event, letters from world champion surfer Kelly Slater, a medal for courage in defence of marine life and her ruined surfboard are constant reminders of the day.

"I don't hate them (sharks), I respect them more than ever now," she said.

"The ocean is where they live and I was mistaken for something I'm not, that's all.

"I don't think my life will change this summer, I still plan to go surfing as often as I can."

"I know when it doesn't feel right to get back in the water and I know when it's OK."