Queensland Flood Deaths: Two Backpackers Found as Major Flooding Continues

Two people have died in Queensland floods, with major flooding impacting hundreds of homes and businesses in Bundaberg. Thousands are isolated.
By Newsroom | Natural Disasters, Australia |

BODIES RECOVERED IN SEARCH FOR BACKPACKERS AMIDST WIDESPREAD FLOODING

Two individuals, a 26-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman, have been confirmed deceased following a search for missing Chinese backpackers in Queensland's floodwaters. Their silver Subaru Forester was located submerged in floodwaters on Kilkivan Tansey Road. The pair were en route from Brisbane to the North Burnett region, inland from Bundaberg, when they disappeared. A large-scale search operation involving police, the State Emergency Service (SES), and helicopters was initiated across an expansive area from Kilkivan to Mundubbera.

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MAJOR FLOODING DISRUPTS BUNDABERG AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Bundaberg has been severely impacted, with major flooding affecting hundreds of homes and businesses. Thousands of residents in Bundaberg North remain isolated, as key infrastructure, including the Tallon and Burnett River Bridges, are closed. Communities are expected to remain cut off for an extended period. An exclusion zone has been established in parts of the city, encompassing areas from Braithwaite Street to Mutch Street, along the creek line to Railway Street, and further delineated by Heeney, Hypatia, and Gormelys Roads, eventually returning to Rider Street.

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WIDESPREAD FLOOD WATCH AND WARNINGS ACROSS QUEENSLAND

Much of the state remains under a 'flood watch', with authorities anticipating widespread minor to moderate flooding, and isolated instances of major flooding. Heavy rainfall has persistently affected the region since Friday morning, saturating catchments that are now highly susceptible to further inundation. Several river systems and creeks across Queensland are currently under flood warnings, including the Burrum and Cherwell, Isis, Gregory, Elliott, Mary, Noosa, Mooloolah, Upper Brisbane and Stanley, lower Condamine, Myall, and Charleys Creek.

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PREPARING FOR AND RESPONDING TO FLOOD EVENTS

State agencies are providing resources and information to the public regarding flood preparedness. Guidance is available on creating emergency flood plans, understanding personal flood risk, and seeking assistance during flood events. The distinction between a 'Flood Watch' and a 'Flood Warning' is also being clarified, alongside advice on enhancing home resilience against flood damage.

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HISTORICAL CONTEXT AND ONGOING RISKS

Bundaberg has experienced significant flooding multiple times in recent years, with the current event potentially reaching levels not seen in over a decade. This underscores a recurring vulnerability within the region to severe weather patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happened to the missing backpackers in Queensland?
Two young backpackers, a 26-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman, have been found dead in floodwaters. Their car was found submerged on Kilkivan Tansey Road.
Q: How is Bundaberg affected by the current flooding?
Bundaberg is experiencing major flooding, which has damaged hundreds of homes and businesses. Thousands of residents in Bundaberg North are isolated, with key bridges closed.
Q: Are there flood warnings for other parts of Queensland?
Yes, much of Queensland is under a flood watch, with warnings for many river systems and creeks. Authorities expect widespread minor to moderate flooding, and some major flooding.
Q: What is being done to help people prepare for floods?
State agencies are giving advice on how to make emergency flood plans, understand personal flood risks, and get help during floods. They are also explaining the difference between flood watches and warnings.
Q: Why is Bundaberg so vulnerable to flooding?
Bundaberg has faced major floods several times in recent years, including this event which could be one of the worst in over a decade. This shows the area is often at risk from bad weather.