Joe Hoffman surfer crescent head beach NSW Great White shark attack 2021

A Queensland surfer was identified as the young man mauled by a three-metre Great White shark in New South Wales.

A Queensland surfer has been identified as the young man mauled by a three-metre Great White shark on the NSW Mid North Coast.

Joe Hoffman, believed to be in his twenties, was bitten on the arm while surfing at Crescent Head Beach on Monday afternoon.

He was assisted out of the water and treated on the scene by paramedics.

He was transported to John Hunter Hospital, where he is currently recovering.

Hoffman sustained a severe bicep laceration.

A photo posted to the Crescent Head Santa Surf Facebook page shows a man's surfboard with a large circular bite taken out of it.

“Be cautious out there,” the caption read.

Hoffman's rescuers have been lauded.

“A great deal of credit must go to bystanders who assisted the man from the water and administered critical initial first aid,” NSW Ambulance Inspector Andrew Beverley said.

“It was a significant bite, and as a result, the man sustained serious injuries to his arm.

While it may be cold outside, it is critical to always be aware of your surroundings in the water, even in the winter.”

Surf Life Saving NSW closed the beach on Monday.

It is unknown whether the restaurant will reopen on Tuesday.

Crescent Head, located north of Port Macquarie, is a popular surfing spot.