Wappa falls’ deadly history: The lives lost and the hidden dangers

The recent deaths of Beau Liddell and Honor Ward at Wappa Falls mark the fifth tragedy at the site since 2007, with calls growing for stronger safety measures to prevent further loss of life.

Wappa Falls victims

As the Sunshine Coast community continues to grapple with the tragic deaths of teenagers Beau Liddell and Honor Ward at Wappa Falls, attention has turned once again to the dangers of the popular swimming spot.

Known for its picturesque setting near Yandina, the area has a history of fatal incidents, with strong currents and hidden underwater caves posing significant risks, particularly during heavy rainfall.

The double tragedy on Sunday has sparked fresh calls for caution and greater awareness of the site’s hidden hazards.

On Thursday, a spokesperson for the Department of Natural Resources, Mines, Manufacturing, and Regional and Rural Development described the incident as “tragic”.

“Our thoughts are with the families and friends of Honor and Beau at this difficult time,” the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson said that as the Queensland Police Service investigated the incident and prepared a report for the Coroner, further comment would be inappropriate.

“The department will await the outcome of the Coroner’s report and any recommendations to improve safety,” they said.

They also clarified that Wappa Falls and the downstream watercourse border state land and privately owned freehold land.

While the State Government oversees state land, the road providing access to the area falls under the jurisdiction of the Sunshine Coast Council.

Locals warn of honeycomb-like underwater rocks and tunnels that create deep crevices and deadly currents during heavy rainfall.

Connor Walsh, a Maroochydore teen, shared his near-death experience at the site.

“We were just sitting in one of the little holes and we got swept out and over the waterfall, we got churned a couple of times by luckily got spat out,” Mr Walsh said.

Locals are divided on the issue, with some calling for the falls to be closed or fenced off, while others believe the existing signage sufficiently warns visitors of the dangers.

Here are the stories of five lives tragically lost at Wappa Falls since 2007.

Double tragedy claims lives of Sunshine Coast teens

Beau Liddell and Honor Ward.

On Sunday, Wappa Falls was the scene of a devastating incident that claimed the lives of two 17-year-olds, Honor Ward and Beau Liddell.

Honor slipped into the water, prompting Beau to heroically jump in to save her, but both tragically drowned.

Emergency services, including police divers and the Queensland Fire Department, conducted a search operation.

Honor’s body was recovered by 3.30pm, while Beau’s was found at 7.25pm.

The two teens, former students of Sunshine Beach State High School, left a lasting impact on the close-knit community, with tributes pouring in across social media following their tragic deaths.

Loved ones remembered Beau as “beautiful, creative, and kind,” while Honor was celebrated for having “the most beautiful soul.”

A Father’s heroic sacrifice

Cassan Cowman is remembered as a charismatic family man after his life was tragically cut short when he drowned after trying to save his son at Wappa Falls, Sunshine Coast.

Three years prior to Sunday’s tragedy, on January 2, 2022, a father drowned while trying to save his young son at Wappa Falls.

Remembered as a charismatic family man, Cassan Cowman, 49, from Toowoomba and originally from Ireland, died after diving into the swift waters at Wappa Falls to rescue his seven-year-old son.

Emergency services were called at 2pm when Mr Cowman was reported missing.

Police divers recovered his body at 6.29pm in treacherous conditions.

According to police district duty officer Brett Young, the incident occurred when the young child fell into the waterfall area.

The father entered the water to save him but slipped and did not resurface.

Other witnesses were able to retrieve the child, who was later taken to the Sunshine Coast University Hospital for observation and was unharmed.

‘Tragic losses have to stop’: Teen drowns after jumping into floodwaters

Marie O’Brien with her son Mitchell Edwards.

On December 8, 2010, 15-year-old Mitchell Edwards, from Nambour, tragically drowned at Wappa Falls after jumping into floodwater from a three-metre rock ledge.

He was with friends, but he was the only one who entered the water.

Police were called after Mitchell was last seen briefly caught in the turbulent water at 11.20am.

Search efforts began immediately, with police, water rescue teams, and SES crews arriving, however due to the dangerous conditions, divers were unable to enter the water until floodwater had eased the next day.

His father joined the rescue effort, while his mother and older brother were flying in from Adelaide.

Divers found Mitchell’s body after a 30-hour search.

Distressed friends of Mitchell posted tributes on social media, expressing disbelief and sorrow.

Mitchell’s father, Damon Edwards, highlighted the dangers of the falls.

“No parent should have to bury a child before they themselves are buried. These tragic losses have to stop,” Mr Edwards said.

Teenager’s life lost amid floodwater

Dominic Hayes

On December 18, 2007, 15-year-old Dominic “Dom” Hayes tragically drowned after jumping into a flooded rock pool at Wappa Falls.

Dom had been enjoying a day out with friends when swollen waters, caused by heavy rain, swept him away.

After making one last jump into the rock pool, it is believed the cricket-loving teen was overwhelmed by the rushing water and was sucked under.

Emergency services launched a search, but dangerous conditions prevented immediate underwater efforts.

A police dive squad was set to enter, but an early morning walker found Dom’s body at 5.20am.

Police believe the heavy rain and spill from nearby Wappa Dam had increased the water pressure in the pool, trapping Dom underwater.

Acting Inspector Sean McKay noted that as the water subsided, the pressure released, allowing Dom’s body to float to the surface.

It’s believed Dom may have become disoriented while underwater and couldn’t resurface.

His death deeply affected the Yandina community, and his friends returned to the swimming hole to reflect, scratching “RIP DOM” into one of the rocks.

A plaque was also placed on a rock at the falls in memory of Dom following his tragic death.

“In loving memory of Dom Hayes who drowned here having the time of his life jumping from the rocks after heavy rain,” the plaque read. “Aged 15 years. Sadly missed by all who knew him.”