The flooded Molonglo River at Oaks Estate on Sunday afternoon, 9 August. Photo: Michael Weaver.
UPDATE 7:30 pm, 9 August: A man has died while kayaking in the flooded waters of the Murrumbidgee River near Point Hut Crossing this afternoon (9 August).
At about 2:00 pm, the man, one of a group of kayakers, became stuck under a bridge in his kayak.
The man was located about 6:20 pm unresponsive in the water, with ACT Policing confirming the man had died.
A massive search and rescue mission involved members from ACT Policing, AFP Search and Rescue, AFP Water Police, ACT Fire and Rescue and ACT State Emergency Service, who commenced a search of the Point Hut area and the Murrumbidgee River downstream.
“The water levels are very high and the water is flowing very fast and is also very cold. There are also a lot of obstacles under the water as well,” said Inspector Brett Booth.
The remaining group of kayakers is assisting police with their investigations at the Tuggeranong Police Station.
Police are urging the public not to enter or play in floodwaters or swollen rivers.
“While river levels are high, there is swift and very cold water about. It’s very dangerous and we recommend that people stay well clear of the banks of rivers and don’t enter the water under any circumstances, regardless of your own abilities,” Inspector Booth said.
The Murrumbidgee River is one of many in the region experiencing major flows, with all creeks and rivers in the area swollen following flooding rain since Friday.
ACT Policing will now prepare a report for the coroner regarding the death of the man at Point Hut.
Loading ...
