UPDATE: A 17-year-old girl has tragically fallen approximately 30 metres to her death at Moffat Beach, Queensland, while attempting to take a photo of the sunset. The incident unfolded just before 6:40 PM local time yesterday, as she and her friends sought a better vantage point.
Authorities report that the girl climbed over a safety fence before losing her footing and tumbling down the cliff. Despite the immediate arrival of police and off-duty medical professionals, she succumbed to severe head injuries at the scene. Detective Peter Hocken from Queensland Police stated, “[She] slipped and fell 30 meters onto the rocks below.”
Witnesses, including medical responders, were visibly shaken as they attempted to assist. “They located the young lady and provided as much assistance as they could. Unfortunately, she passed away on scene due to the severity of her injuries. Life can be a bit unfair, especially at this time of year, just before Christmas,” Hocken added.
Adding to the tragedy, another woman who tried to help sustained minor injuries during the rescue efforts. The terrain posed significant challenges for emergency responders, with firefighters struggling to navigate the rocky ground, which had already claimed the girl’s life.
Authorities have confirmed that multiple warning signs were present at the lookout, urging visitors to respect the safety barriers in place. Ryan Dubyk from Queensland Fire and Rescue cautioned, “Especially at this time of year, and throughout the year, just please respect the barriers in place. Stay back.”
The group of friends had taken an unofficial path to the lookout, which was marked with a non-permanent barrier, intended for safety. A report will be prepared for the coroner to investigate the adequacy of warning signs and whether improvements are necessary to prevent future tragedies.
This incident marks a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers associated with popular lookout spots. In a similar case in 2021, a 58-year-old mother fell to her death at Windin Falls while visiting with her children, underscoring the perilous nature of these scenic locations.
As the community mourns this tragic loss, authorities urge everyone to exercise caution and heed safety warnings when visiting popular sites.
