An 80-year-old woman was found deceased on Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, on Sunday morning after being reported missing by a Coral Adventurer cruise ship. The ship had departed the island on Saturday evening and returned hours later when her absence was noted. Australian authorities are investigating the incident.
Incident Details
An 80-year-old Australian woman was discovered deceased on Lizard Island, located approximately 250 km (155 miles) north of Cairns, on Sunday morning. She had been a passenger on the Coral Adventurer cruise ship.
On Saturday, the woman reportedly participated in a group hike to Cook's Look, the island's highest peak, and subsequently separated from the group to rest. The Coral Adventurer cruise ship departed the island around sunset on Saturday. The crew noted the woman's absence several hours later, prompting the ship to return to the island.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) was informed of the missing woman by the ship's captain at approximately 21:00 local time on Saturday (05:00 GMT on Friday).
Search Operation
A search operation commenced, involving a helicopter equipped with a spotlight and approximately seven individuals conducting a ground search with torches on the island. The initial ground search was concluded around 03:00 local time on Sunday. A helicopter resumed searching on Sunday morning, subsequently locating the woman's body.
Traci Ayris, a witness sailing near the island, observed the search activities, including the helicopter and ground teams. Ayris stated that search efforts were called off after the body was located, and police later visited the site.
Investigation and Response
AMSA is investigating the incident and plans to meet with the ship's crew when it docks in Darwin later this week. AMSA stated it would collaborate with other relevant agencies to investigate the case.
Mark Fifield, chief executive of Coral Expeditions, confirmed that staff have contacted the woman's family and are offering support following the death. Fifield stated the company expressed regret regarding the incident and is providing full support to the family while investigations continue.
Queensland police have indicated that a report on the sudden and non-suspicious death will be prepared for the coroner.
Cruise Ship Information
The Coral Adventurer is designed to access remote areas of Australia's coast, with a capacity for up to 120 guests and 46 crew members. The ship is equipped with tenders, small boats used for day excursions. The woman was reportedly on the first stop of a 60-day cruise around Australia.