By Our Correspondent
National News – Authorities in Queensland have confirmed the tragic discovery of the bodies of two missing Chinese backpackers whose vehicle was swept away by dangerous floodwaters during severe weather conditions.
The victims, a 26-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman, were travelling through the region when they disappeared while driving from Brisbane to the rural North Burnett Region.
According to Australian police, the pair were reported missing on Tuesday after failing to reach their destination.
A major search operation involving officers, helicopters, and the State Emergency Service was launched.
On Wednesday afternoon, rescue teams located their silver Subaru Forester near the small town of Kilkivan, close to Gympie.
Investigators later confirmed on Thursday that two bodies were discovered inside the submerged vehicle after it was pulled from the floodwaters.
Authorities have informed the victims’ families and are coordinating with the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China regarding the case.
Local officials described the incident as heartbreaking.
Gympie Mayor Glen Hartwig expressed sorrow over the tragedy, noting that the young travellers had come to Australia to explore the country but instead lost their lives in devastating circumstances.
The deaths come as widespread flooding continues to impact parts of northern Australia.
Heavy rainfall over several days has triggered major flood warnings across Queensland and the Northern Territory.
Several communities have been affected, with homes inundated in coastal areas including Bundaberg and towns in the Northern Territory such as Katherine.
Emergency authorities have urged residents and visitors to avoid floodwaters, warning of hidden dangers such as strong currents, submerged vehicles, and wildlife.
Reports have also emerged of crocodiles appearing in flooded areas, increasing the risks for anyone entering the water.
Meanwhile, in Darwin, officials asked residents to conserve water and boil drinking supplies after floodwaters damaged a key pump station that supplies most of the city’s water.
The incident has renewed warnings from emergency services for drivers to avoid flooded roads, as fast-moving water can quickly overwhelm vehicles and lead to deadly situations.
