Croc attacks wildlife sanctuary worker

A woman was backed into a corner before being attacked by a crocodile at a north Queensland wildlife sanctuary, paramedics say.

The 25-year-old woman - reported to be Renee Robertson - was working at the Billabong Sanctuary at Nome, south of Townsville when the croc struck in its pen around 1.30pm on Monday.

A witness told the Nine Network a 2.5-metre animal was responsible for the attack, which happened in front of around 12 witnesses.

Queensland Ambulance Service senior operations supervisor Ross MacDonald says the woman suffered a serious arm injury but was fully conscious when officers arrived.

"We understand she was backed into the corner somehow and the crocodile had a go at her," he said.

She was given pain relief and taken to Townsville hospital in a serious condition.