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Tragedy strikes as two Chinese backpackers drown in Queensland floods

Mar 12, 2026, 5:03 AM20
(Update: Mar 12, 2026, 1:14 PM)
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Tragedy strikes as two Chinese backpackers drown in Queensland floods

  • Two young Chinese backpackers were reported missing after their vehicle became trapped in floodwaters in Queensland.
  • A large-scale search operation was initiated, resulting in the discovery of their bodies in a submerged vehicle.
  • This incident underscores the dangers posed by the ongoing severe flooding affecting multiple regions in Queensland.
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In Queensland, Australia, the tragic discovery of two bodies in floodwaters has highlighted the severe weather conditions affecting the region. On Tuesday, March 10, 2026, a 26-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman from China went missing while traveling from Brisbane to the North Burnett area to begin fruit-picking jobs. Their friend reported them missing when they failed to arrive for their planned work. Intensive search efforts by police, emergency services, and helicopters ensued, especially amid ongoing severe flood warnings across Queensland. On Wednesday, March 11, authorities located their vehicle, a silver Subaru Forester, submerged in water near Kilkivan, west of Gympie. The tragic circumstances surrounding their disappearance indicated that the vehicle had left a bridge and fallen into swollen floodwaters, suggesting the severe nature of the flooding in the area. Upon further investigation, the search teams confirmed the presence of two bodies inside the vehicle. Local police stated that while formal identification was still being conducted, they strongly suspected that the victims were the two missing tourists. This incident marked a significant tragedy amidst the ongoing flooding crisis, which has caused significant disruption across various Queensland communities, leading to major damage to homes and farmland. Local mayor Glen Hartwig expressed profound sadness at the loss of life, emphasizing the desire of the young travelers to explore Australia and secure employment. Widespread flooding has resulted from heavy rains inundating many parts of Queensland and the Northern Territory, leaving communities grappling with rising water levels that have reached alarming heights. In some areas, homes have been significantly affected, and thousands are facing evacuations and property damage. Authorities continue to advise residents on flood safety measures as they monitor this natural disaster's progression.

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