Police have released footage of a man being sought after a baby was left with severe burns after scalding liquid was poured over him in a horrifying attack.

The nine-month-old boy was with his family at Brisbane’s Hanlon Park, Stones Corner, at midday on Tuesday when the incident unfolded.

Police said a man unknown to the family approached the gathering and poured the hot liquid, believed to be coffee, on the baby.

An off-duty nurse who lives nearby has told of hearing screams, with the infant’s mother yelling repeatedly: “My baby, my baby”.

The nurse told the Seven Network she rushed down to the park, to find the child had burns to 60 per cent of his body. She brought him back to her nearby apartment and put him under a cold shower until paramedics arrived.

The boy was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. He reportedly suffered burns to his chest and face and has had surgery.

Child protection and investigation detectives have launched an inquiry. On Wednesday, Queensland Police released footage of a man seen running from the park shortly after the shocking incident.

He is described as aged 30-40, with tanned skin. He was wearing a black hat, glasses, a shirt and shorts.

Anyone who recognises the man, or who has any information is urged to contact police.

-with AAP