Queensland authorities have confirmed the deaths of two international tourists who went missing during the recent floods. Police located the bodies shortly after discovering their vehicle on Kilkivan Tansey Road, near the small town of Kilkivan.
The pair, a 26-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman, had been travelling from Brisbane to the North Burnett region when they failed to arrive. Their silver Subaru Forester was found on Wednesday afternoon, sparking a widescale search involving police and SES crews.
Kilkivan sits within the Burnett River catchment, which has experienced severe flooding this week. Nearby towns, including Bundaberg, Chinchilla, Curra and Gympie, were affected by heavy rain and overflow from the Mary River.
As floodwaters begin to recede, Bundaberg residents are surveying the damage to homes and businesses. The Bundaberg Regional Council announced on Thursday that both the Burnett Traffic and Tallon Bridges are now open, with 40 km/hr speed limits in place on Queens Street and Hinkler Ave. Officials warned motorists to take care around restoration crews and heavy machinery working in the area.
Aerial footage released by police has revealed widespread devastation, showing roads, homes, and trees submerged. Horses were seen stranded in a construction site, and entire streets were surrounded by murky brown waters.
State member for Bundaberg, Tom Smith, said water levels had “dropped significantly” since Wednesday but cautioned residents not to return to their properties until deemed safe by authorities.
“This will be a very difficult time, but it is critical that nobody attempts to return to their property until council and emergency services say it is safe,” he said. “As a whole community, we are facing this challenge in the spirit our region is known for.”
Image: 7News
