UPDATE: The Department of Environment and Heritage Protection received a report from Mackay Police this morning saying a member of the public observed an estuarine crocodile swimming of Lamberts Beach at Slade Point.

Police confirmed the sighting about 9am and closed the beach as a community safety precaution, a Department of Environment and Heritage Protection spokesperson said.  

The crocodile was not observed displaying aggressive behaviour and was believed to be "passing through" - as these animals often use the open ocean as a means to travel from one creek or river system to another.  

Lamberts Beach is within known "croc country" and there are permanent crocodile warning signs in place. EHP understands the beach is now re-opened.

EARLIER: Police have issued a warning to residents after a crocodile was spotted at Slade Point this morning.

There is a crocodile swimming around the Lamberts Beach area at Slade Point, QPS said on social media.

RELATED: How many crocodiles were spotted in Mackay in 2015?

Police are on the scene, but anyone who is in the area is being asked to stay out of the water and listen to instructions from police and other agencies at the scene.

If you have photo of the crocodile or are at the scene post your photos to our Facebook page or email them to news@dailymercury.com.au. 

More to come.