Submerged Vehicle Found in Queensland Floodwaters in Search for Missing Tourists
Queensland Police have confirmed the discovery of a submerged vehicle believed to belong to two missing international tourists, as dangerous weather conditions trigger multiple emergencies across the state. The silver Subaru Forester was found near Kilkivan, west of Gympie, during a search operation for a 26-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman, both Chinese nationals.
Details of the Search and Discovery
The tourists, who were traveling from Brisbane to the North Burnett region to begin farm work, were last heard from on Sunday night. Their final phone signal was detected at Kilkivan, an area now heavily impacted by flooding. They were only reported missing on Wednesday after failing to arrive at their destination.
Drone footage captured by 7NEWS shows the silver 4WD partially underwater, though the interior remains obscured from view. A ground and aerial search began on Wednesday afternoon but was suspended at nightfall due to safety concerns. The search is expected to resume at first light on Thursday.
Impact of Severe Weather Across Queensland
The discovery of the submerged vehicle marks a significant development in the ongoing search, as floodwaters continue to cut off access to large parts of the region. Police remain at the scene where the vehicle was found, and authorities are urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of the missing tourists to contact them immediately.
In a separate emergency, police have issued a Public Safety Preservation Act (PSPA) declaration for Chinchilla due to rising flood dangers, as severe weather sweeps across Queensland. Flooding has inundated approximately 200 homes in Bundaberg, forced school closures, and led to road shutdowns across the state.
Ongoing Efforts and Community Response
Emergency services are actively responding to the crisis, with resources deployed to multiple affected areas. The search for the missing tourists is ongoing, and authorities emphasize the importance of public cooperation in providing any relevant information.
Queensland is currently experiencing a flood emergency, with river levels rising and communities bracing for further impacts. Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and avoid travel in affected regions.
