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| View over Watson's Bay from Cook's Look on Lizard Island. (file image) |
UPDATE: 1 Nov 25: Coral Expeditions cancels 60-day cruise
Details regarding a fatal incident on a Great Barrier Reef expedition cruise are now being reported.
“Coral Expeditions can confirm the tragic death of a passenger on the Coral Adventurer during an excursion to Lizard Island in Queensland,” Coral Expeditions chief executive Mark Fifield told news.com.au
The woman, Suzanne Rees, 80, was taking part in a hike to 'Cook's Look', the highest point on Lizard Island (359m) and a popular, if challenging, path.
“Coral Expeditions can confirm the tragic death of a passenger on the Coral Adventurer during an excursion to Lizard Island in Queensland,” Coral Expeditions chief executive Mark Fifield told news.com.au
The woman, Suzanne Rees, 80, was taking part in a hike to 'Cook's Look', the highest point on Lizard Island (359m) and a popular, if challenging, path.
"The steep, at times extremely difficult, track to the summit (359m) follows the footsteps of Lieutenant James Cook who visited Jiigurru (Lizard Island) in 1770.The lower section of the track traverses sloping granite slabs with rough-cut steps in places. In spring, look for the distinctive kapok trees with fluffy seed pods. About half way, you can rest in a grove of shady acacias and eucalypts. Look for, but don't disturb, golden orchids growing on rock faces.Towards the summit, the woodland gives way to a steep ascent through grasslands and rocks. From the summit you will be rewarded with spectacular 360 degree views over the reef."
Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) and police are investigating why the woman was allegedly left behind on Lizard Island in Far North Queensland after a shore excursion. AMSA states: "will make an assessment as to whether there was any non-compliance associated with the passenger not being counted onto the ship and, if necessary, will take action to address them. "
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has issued a notice to the Master of Coral Adventurer prohibiting the embarkation of any new passengers; however, we understand the decision to terminate the cruise was made prior to this directive, in combination with unrelated technical issues with the vessel. Coral Adventurer did not proceed to Darwin as reported elsewhere, but disembarked all passengers and some crew at Horn Island, flying them out on charter flights.
A coronial inquest is expected, and as such, further comment is necessarily limited.
News reports here:
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