Authorities suspect that a trio was ascending Mount Beerwah earlier today when tragedy struck, leading to a devastating fall for two of the climbers, both aged 18.
A young woman experienced a catastrophic plunge of approximately 60 meters, resulting in fatal injuries at the scene.
The young man, reportedly her boyfriend, tumbled around 90 meters, sustaining critical head trauma.
Emergency services airlifted him to Sunshine Coast University Hospital, where he remains in a critical condition, fighting for his life.
Rescue teams scaled the mountain to secure the safety of the third climber, who, although unharmed, was in a state of shock.
Reports suggest she is the sibling of the deceased teenager.
The mountain has been closed to the public for nearly a week after heavy rainfall in south-east Queensland had made the area unsafe for walking.
“This closure is a precautionary measure following high rainfall events,” a statement on the Queensland Parks and Forests website said.
“The risk of large rockfall above the summit route is much higher after heavy rain.”
There is signage in the area highlighting that the mountain is closed to the public.
The closure was set to be lifted tomorrow, but it is not known if it will now be extended due to today’s accident.
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