Overview
- Queensland Police said the death of 80-year-old Suzanne Rees was sudden and non-suspicious and referred the case to the coroner.
- The Australian Maritime Safety Authority is investigating why Rees was not accounted for and plans onboard inquiries when the Coral Adventurer reaches Darwin.
- WorkSafe Queensland is assisting authorities as scrutiny focuses on shore-excursion headcounts and passenger accounting procedures.
- Rees became separated during an organized hike on a hot day, and her daughter says she felt ill, was told to return unescorted, and was later found dead after the ship departed and then returned to the island.
- Coral Expeditions expressed condolences, said it is cooperating with investigators, and the family is calling for a coronial inquest, alleging a failure of care.