Man attacked by shark at Crescent Head Beach on NSW mid north coast

A man has suffered ‘significant’ injuries after being mauled by a shark while he was surfing at a beach on the mid north coast of NSW.

A surfer has suffered a “significant” shark bite on the mid north coast of NSW.

Bystanders helped the man, believed to be in his 20s, from the water after the attack at Crescent Head Beach, about 4.30pm.

Four emergency crews, including the Westpac Rescue helicopter, assessed and treated the man for a severe arm injury.

He was flown to John Hunter Hospital in a serious but stable condition, a NSW Ambulance spokesman said.

A generic picture of a shark. Authorities have now closed the beach. Picture: WA Surf Life Saving

NSW Ambulance Inspector Andrew Beverley thanked those who rushed to help the injured man.

“Much praise must be given to bystanders who helped the man from the water and provided that crucial initial first aid,” he said.

“It was a significant bite and the man suffered serious injuries to his arm as a result.

“It might be cold at the moment but it’s important to always be aware of your surrounding in the water, even in winter.”

NSWDPI is assisting @slsnsw respond to a shark bite involving 20 year old male surfer at Crescent Head, near Killick Creek, this afternoon. SLSNSW has closed Killick And Crescent Head beaches.

— SharkSmart (@NSWSharkSmart) July 5, 2021

Surf Life Saving NSW has closed the beach.

NSW Police said officers from Mid North Coast Police District will liaise with the Department of Primary Industry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The last shark attack in NSW unfolded at Tuncurry on the NSW mid-north coast on May 18.

Surfer Mark Sanguinetti died after being attacked by a suspected 4.5m white shark.

The 59-year-old father, from Sydney’s northern beaches, was bitten on his upper right thigh while surfing with friends just after 11am, and died at the scene.

Police have urged beach goers to follow safety advice from Surf Life Saving NSW and by visiting the Department of Primary Industry’s website and the SharkSmart app.