Surf lifesaver and firefighter undergoes surgery after NSW north coast shark attack

A long-time surf lifesaver and fire fighter is the latest victim of a shark attack off the NSW north coast, when his left ankle was bitten this morning at Black Head Beach, north of Forster.

David Quinliven, 65, was riding a surf ski when a shark knocked him off the board, before biting into his ankle.

"He said, I’ve been bitten by a shark. He was in good spirits, he’s a tough old solider," a witness told 9NEWS.

"I grabbed his head and his hand, and torniqueted his leg with my shirt, and his shirt," he said.

Mr Quinliven, a member of the Black Head Beach Surf Club, was also assisted on the beach by a holidaying doctor and several surfers.

The Westpac Life Saver Rescue helicopter arrived a short time later and took Mr Quinliven to John Hunter Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery.

NSW Police Acting Inspector Matthew Hinton said the injuries were not life threatening.

Mr Quinliven is from Tallwoods Village, only a seven minute drive from the scene of the attack.

The beach has been closed for 24 hours and authorities are assessing nearby beaches for risks.

Just days ago, a dolphin carcass washed up on the shore, bearing what appeared to be bite marks, possibly from a shark.