Little Bay shark attack: Sydney beaches closed as lifeguards patrol for further sightings

The swimmer died from catastrophic injuries after being targeted by what witnesses said was a four-and-a-half metre great white shark at Little Bay on Wednesday afternoon.

Randwick council has shut a number of beaches including Little Bay, Malabar, Maroubra, Coogee, Clovelly and La Perouse for 24 hours.

Human remains were later found in the water.

It is the first fatal shark attack in Sydney waters since 1963.

A witness told Nine News he had seen a four-and-a-half metre great white shark attack the swimmer.

The unnamed victim is believe to be a local man who swam regularly.