Max Marsden recovering in hospital after shark attack in Greenough, near Geraldton

Competition surfer Max Marsden was bitten by a shark while surfing with a friend on Sunday. (ABC Midwest& Wheatbelt: Rachael Clifford)

Well-known surfer Max Marsden is recovering in hospital after being attacked by a shark in Greenough, near Geraldton in Western Australia's Mid West region.

Mr Marsden was surfing at the remote Lucy's Beach with a friend when he was bitten on the arm by the shark, believed to be a 1.5-metre bronze whaler.

Emergency services helped transfer him to a waiting ambulance from the beach, which can only be accessed by four-wheel-drive.

Mr Marsden underwent surgery on Sunday afternoon for non-life-threatening injuries but is in a stable condition. 

Mr Marsden was taken to Geraldton Hospital following the attack. (Facebook: Grace Edwards)

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) confirmed it received a report of a shark bite at the beach, about 25 kilometres south of Geraldton, that occurred around 7.15am.

Attack 'extremely rare and isolated event'

City of Greater Geraldton mayor Shane Van Styn said the incident could have been much worse. 

Shane Van Styn said it was the first shark attack in the area "in quite some time". (ABC News)

"We are just grateful that by all accounts, the injuries haven't been too significant in this instance," he said. 

Mr Van Styn said attacks in the area were rare. 

"In Geraldton, this is the first shark attack in quite some time," he said. 

"The location where the shark attack took place is a very isolated place, so any monitoring of it would probably be unfeasible.

"It is an extremely rare and isolated event and city staff have temporarily closed the beach for the time being, but it is unlikely to trigger any further actions." 

Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended on the rugged stretch of coastline. (ABC Midwest and Wheatbelt: Rachael Clifford )

Popular surfing spot

Lucy's Beach is popular with fishers and surfers, but not swimmers, due to dangerous rips. 

The Beachsafe website describes the beach as "hazardous", with craggy rocks, platforms and reefs dominating the shoreline where there is a "narrow surf zone".

The beach has been closed by rangers from the City of Geraldton. (ABC Midwest and Wheatbelt: Rachael Clifford)

DPIRD said it was working with local authorities and further information would be provided when available.

Beachgoers have been advised to take extra precautions in the area and adhere to beach closures.

Lucy's Beach is frequented by surfers and fishers.  (ABC Midwest and Wheatbelt: Rachael Clifford )

Stella Berry, 16, died after she was attacked by a bull shark while swimming in the Swan River in North Fremantle in February.

In October last year, spearfisher Robbie Peck almost lost his arm after being bitten offshore from Port Hedland in WA's north.

Anyone who spots a shark is urged to report it to the Water Police on 9442 8600.