SYDNEY, April 16 (Xinhua) -- The Margaret River Pro surf event featuring the world's top surfing talent has been suspended in Western Australia on Monday, after a man was attacked by a shark on Cobbelstones break in Gracetown.

Several local beachgoers are believed to have helped rescue the 30-year-old surfer from the water, who was bitten badly on the leg.

The group then gave the victim first aid on the beach before paramedics arrived on scene and airlifted the man to Perth Hospital via helicopter 270 km north.

It has been reported by local media that he was "conscious and breathing" during the rescue.

Although it has not been confirmed what kind of shark is believed to have attacked the man, earlier this morning Surf Life Saving Western Australia reported several sightings in the area, including a four-metre Great White.

The Shark Smart website said a decomposing whale carcass closeby may be what attracted the predator.

"That could lead to sharks coming close in to shore along this stretch of coast," a statement said.