Beaches across the Ballina Shire have been closed for at least the next 24 hours after a surfer suffered lacerations to his leg following an encounter with a shark at Sharpes Beach today.
The man was surfing in a group at the popular location when he was bumped by a shark shortly before midday.
He was later able to transport himself to hospital for further treatment.
As a result of the incident, lifeguards, police, and the council have closed all beaches across the area.
Warnings signs have been erected and lifeguards will remain on-scene to alert beachgoers. People are encouraged to avoid Sharpes Beach.
Lifeguard assets including a jet ski from nearby Lennox Head are currently conducting a sweep of the area.
The species of the shark involved is not known and the matter has been referred to the NSW Department of Primary Industries for further investigation.
A decision on when to reopen the beaches will be made tomorrow in consultation with all stakeholders.