Kate Cooper, 36, plunges 80m to death in Mapleton Falls tragedy

Authorities have issued a stark warning after a 36-year-old died at a popular Sunshine Coast waterfall, as her heartbroken partner pays loving tribute to the digital creator.

Kate Cooper was at Mapleton Falls on the Sunshine Coast when she tragically fell to her death on Anzac Day. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

A grim warning has been issued after a “beautiful lady” tragically died when she plunged 80m at a Queensland waterfall and has been identified as Kate Cooper.

The 36-year-old from the Sunshine Coast fell on Friday afternoon at popular hinterland hiking spot Mapleton Falls about 90km north of Brisbane.

Photos posted on the digital creator’s social media reflect her love for the outdoors, adventure and travel.

The Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation provided a grim warning in the wake of the tragedy.

“We extend our sympathies to the family and friends of a woman who died in tragic circumstances at Mapleton Falls on Friday,” a spokesman said.

Kate Cooper, 36, tragically died at Mapleton Falls in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

“The incident has impacted on the local community, and we thank the emergency services for their efforts during this time of need.

“Visitors to our protected areas are reminded to pay attention to all warning signs and barriers as they are there to keep you safe.”

The spokesman said Ms Cooper was off the trail and did not observe signs or barriers.

A Queensland Police Service spokeswoman said a report was being prepared for the coroner and the death was non-suspicious.

Police would not confirm details of Ms Cooper’s last moments.

Her partner, Simon Rosenkranz, said he was “absolutely devastated”.

“Kate was the kindest, most loving and most beautiful person I’ve ever met,” Mr Rosenkranz said.

“We had a future planned which will now never happen.

“I hope to spend the rest of my life honouring her beautiful spirit.”

Mr Rosenkranz announced her death in a heartbreaking post.

“Rest in peace my love,” he wrote.

“You were one of the most beautiful people I’ve ever met and made me feel so loved.

“I’ll miss and love you more every day and cherish the memories we made.

“Can’t believe you’re gone.

“I love you, beautiful lady.”

Shocked loved ones posted tributes with one saying how wonderful it was to meet her just a couple of weeks ago and another saying she had only just been speaking to her about the falls yesterday.

Dozens of others offered condolences and messages of support.

Kate with her partner Simon Rosenkranz.

“So sorry for your loss Simon. I could tell how happy you made each other,” Rob Frith wrote.

Amy Thorpe remembered Kate as a “beautiful human” while another friend said “your kindness, smiles and jokes will forever resonate in our hearts. Thank you for the time you let us spend with you. You will never be forgotten.”

Emergency crews were called to the national park about 3.31pm following reports a woman had fallen.

According to the Queensland Ambulance Service, she was assessed for “significant life-threatening injuries”.

Sadly, she could not be saved.

Kate posted pictures of her adventures on Facebook.

An 18-year-old man who was with her at the time suffered minor injuries and was taken to Nambour Hospital in a stable condition.

The region had experienced torrential rain and flash flooding in the hours before as up to 200m fell and two people were struck by lightning but survived.

A safety warning on the Queensland Parks and Wildlife website warns “sheer cliffs and slippery rocks near the waterfall are hazardous … keep to the walking tracks, stay behind safety fences and follow all warning signs to avoid tragedy”.

A Queensland Fire Department spokesman said on Saturday one crew attended to help, and the matter was now in the hands of police.

A Queensland Police Service spokeswoman confirmed a report would be prepared for the coroner following the death – the third at a Sunshine Coast waterfall this year.

In January, teenagers Beau Liddell and Honor Ward were killed in a double tragedy at Wappa Falls.