There have been a number of shark attacks in recent weeks

Police were alerted to a 'serious shark bite incident' off the coast of Woorim Beach on Bribie Island, Queensland, Australia at around 4.45pm Monday local time (5.45am GMT).

The girl was left with catastrophic injuries to her upper arm and torso and despite the best efforts of those at the scene, she could not be revived.

It's currently unknown which species of shark was involved in the attack.

A clip of the aftermath of the attack circulated online, showing more than a dozen emergency responders scrambling to save the youngster while another girl is seen being comforted.

The incident comes after tourists enjoying a dip during a local heatwave last week were seen hurrying away from the water after a shark had been spotted just off the coast.

Swimmers were ordered out of the water at around 2.30pm local time in Maroubra Beach in Australia on January 27 Pictures from the scene showed several people standing at the water's edge, in case a shark was stalking the coastline popular with tourists.

The beach had been packed as people attempted to cool down amid a local heatwave and 31C temperatures.

Earlier this year, a surfer disappeared off the coast of South Australia and was believed to have died in a shark attack.

The 28-year-old was enjoying the waves off the coast of Granites Beach when eyewitnesses reported seeing him being attacked.

One witness rushed out on a jet ski to try and help him but there was no sign of the surfer.

Initial reports of the attack came sparked a major emergency response, with officers sent searching the area before returning the next day.

Moving tributes were paid to the surfer and footballer, with friends describing him as a "loved character" and a "bloody champion man".