Surfer attacked by shark at Gumtree Bay, Leeman

UPDATE: A surfer will be airlifted to Perth after being attacked by a shark off the coast of Leeman, about 300km north of the metropolitan area.

Authorities were called to the attack at Gumtree Bay, north of Leeman in the Shire of Carnamah, at 2.44pm on Wednesday.

The 25-year-old man was bitten on his calf and ankle by an unknown species of shark, suffering a 20cm wound.

He was taken to Leeman Nursing Post by ambulance and will be airlifted to Perth by an emergency Royal Flying Doctor Service flight.

Bleeding from his wound is “under control” and he is in a stable condition, a St John Ambulance spokeswoman said.

The man was surfing when he was attacked and Shire of Carnamah rangers have since closed the beach.

Authorities are urging people to be vigilant in the area.

“Use your Sea Sense and stay informed by checking for shark activity on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app or Surf Life Saving WA’s Twitter feed,” a Fisheries spokesman said.

“If you see a shark, report it to Water Police on 9442 8600. All shark sighting information reported to Water Police is provided to land managers and relevant authorities and to the public on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app and Surf Life Saving WA Twitter feed.”