A tragic shark attack on the NSW Mid North Coast has claimed the life of a young woman and left a man seriously injured. The incident occurred at Crowdy Bay, near Port Macquarie, early this morning.

Emergency services were alerted to the scene around 6:30 a.m., where they found the victims already receiving assistance from bystanders. Despite their efforts, the woman, believed to be in her 20s, succumbed to her injuries at the location.

The man, also in his 20s, was critically injured and required swift airlifting to John Hunter Hospital. According to NSW Ambulance, he remains in a stable condition.

The man, also aged in his 20s, was airlifted to John Hunter Hospital with serious injuries.

NSW Ambulance said the man was in a stable condition.

The beach has been closed and work is under way to identify the species of shark involved.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Surf Life Saving NSW chief executive Steven Pearce told 2GB the association was sending up surveillance drones and personnel to support police and the Department of Primary Industries.

“These incidents are horrific for everyone, and unfortunately we’ve had a few this year,” he said.

“This area, it’s just so remote, you know, there’s no lifeguarding service up there at all.”