A TEENAGE girl tragically fell to her death on the Sunshine Coast after tumbling down a cliff while trying to take a photo.
The 17-year-old, who was with friends at Moffat Beach in Queensland, fell approximately 30 metres after climbing over a safety fence.
Police were called to the scene at 6:40 PM, but despite their efforts, the girl died from severe head injuries at the scene.
It’s believed the group of friends had been watching the sunset when they decided to move to a better vantage point.
As they were making their way back up the embankment, one of the girls slipped and fell.
Her friends could only watch in horror as she tumbled down the cliff.
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“[She] slipped and fell 30 meters onto the rocks below,” said Detective Peter Hocken from Queensland Police.
The incident was particularly distressing for witnesses, including off-duty medical professionals who tried desperately to save her.
“They located the young lady and provided as much assistance as they could,” Hocken said.
“Unfortunately, she passed away on scene due to the severity of her injuries.
“Life can be a bit unfair, especially at this time of year, just before Christmas.”
Another woman who attempted to help the teenager also reportedly sustained minor injuries during the rescue.
The terrain was so treacherous that it even posed a challenges for emergency responders.
Firefighters struggled to reach the scene, with some slipping on the rocky ground.
Adding to the tragedy, several warnings had been posted at the lookout, urging visitors to stay away from the fences.
“Especially at this time of year, and throughout the year, just please respect the barriers in place,” said Ryan Dubyk from Queensland Fire and Rescue.
“Stay back.”
Hocken explained that the girls had taken an unofficial path to the lookout, which had a non-permanent barrier intended for safety.
A report will be prepared for the coroner, who will investigate whether the warning signs were adequate or if improvements are necessary.
The lookout, which offers stunning views of Moffat Beach and the Coral Sea, is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
This tragic incident is not the first time someone has met a fatal end after falling from a height.
In 2021, a 58-year-old mother fell to her death in front of her children while visiting a popular beauty spot on Mother’s Day.
The woman plunged 160 feet at Windin Falls in Cairns, Far North Queensland.
She was crossing a natural infinity pool when she slipped and was knocked unconscious.
Despite the efforts of police, it took around three hours to recover her body, with a rescue operation involving a helicopter, officers on foot, and drones.