Vicious stabbing in north Queensland

A MAN is on the run from police are a vicious attack in which a man was stabbed multiple times in Townsville.

Police said the wounding incident took place in Clarke St, Garbutt early this morning.

"Initial investigations indicate that just after midnight, a physical altercation occurred between two men who were socialising at a Clarke Street address," a police spokesman said.

During the incident, a 45-year-old man received a number of stab wounds to his abdomen.

The other man fled the scene a short time later.

The man was transported to Townsville Hospital for treatment of his non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigations are continuing.

Police urged anyone with information to contact QPS on 131 444.