Two backpackers have been transferred to hospital in serious conditions after being involved in a shark attack near the Whitsunday Islands, off the coast of Queensland.
One of the men, reported to be from England, had his foot bitten off during the horrifying incident close to Airlie Beach. The other man has suffered serious lacerations to his lower leg.
Emergency services were called to popular snorkelling spot Hook Passage, according to 9News.
The two men were treated by paramedics at Coral Sea Marina. Queensland Ambulance tweeted: "Two patients are being transported by road to a location on Proserpine Shute Harbour Road where they will meet up with the rescue helicopter.
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"Both patients have sustained serious lower limb injuries and are in a serious condition."
They were eventually airlifted to Mackay Hospital by the RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter.
They were on a ZigZag snorkelling tour when the incident happened and the company has released a statement, which reads: "Our thoughts are with them, their families and the other guests on the tour.
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"We are working with authorities to assist in any way we can. We have suspended our tours for today and will work closely with authorities regarding our upcoming tours.
"We would also like to thank the VMR and RACQ CQ chopper for their immediate response in assisting our injured guests so quickly."
The Premier of Queensland, Annastacia Palaszczuk, explained she had yet to receive further details but expressed her concern for the victims of the attack.
Palaszczuk said: "My main concern today is for the welfare of these two people who have been injured by what appears to be a shark attack.
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"I don't know if they were diving, if it was offshore, I don't know if it was outside the marine park.
"They will get the best care possible."
Featured Image Credit: PixabayTopics: World News, Australia