Dramatic footage as police search for boy swept down stormwater drain in Mareeba flooding

WATCH QUEENSLAND POLICE FOOTAGE

STAFF WRITERS

Email
Last updated:
Police arrive at the Mareeba scene where a boy was swept down a stormdrain on December 17. Picture: Queensland Police

Queensland Police are warning residents not to play in or drive through floodwaters, with recent wet weather causing some flash flooding across parts of the state.

On December 17, emergency crews were called after a 15-year-old boy was swept into a stormwater drain on the intersection of James and Basalt Street, in Mareeba.

Police located the boy on Reynolds Street after he re-emerged with minor injuries, including cuts and grazes. He was transported to hospital for assessment.

Mareeba Police Station Acting Sergeant Daley Boney said the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of flood waters.

“We strongly advise parents to highlight these dangers to their children, to ensure they aren’t putting themselves in unnecessary risk by playing in stormwater drains, rivers and parklands,” Sergeant Boney said.

“There is also the chance that wildlife like snakes, spiders and even crocodiles could be moving about the flooded waterways, which pose a separate risk.

“The wet weather is expected during this time of year, but it does not mean we should be complacent.

“We will do everything we can to make sure everyone stays safe and makes it home to their loved ones.”

Motorists are also urged to play it safe and abide by road rules, including road closed signs that have been erected to stop people driving through flooded waters.

If you disobey road signs, it will result in a penalty such as a fine and loss of demerit points. In an emergency, contact triple zero (000).

If you are seeking information relating to road closures, please visit: Road Condition Information – QLDTraffic

Support public interest journalism

Help us to continue covering local stories that matter. Please consider supporting below.

Got a news tip?

Send a news tip or submit a letter to the Newsport Editor here.

Comments

Comments are the opinions of readers and do not represent the views of Newsport, its staff or affiliates. Reader comments are moderated before publication to promote valuable, civil, and healthy community debate. Visit our comment guidelines if your comment has not been approved for publication.