Ban Ban Springs couple swim to safety in pyjamas as floodwaters rise swiftly

A couple has climbed out the window of their motorhome and swam to safety in their pyjamas after they were swept away during an unprecedented flood emergency overnight.

A couple has climbed out the window of their motorhome and swam to safety in their pyjamas this morning after they were swept away in flood water during last night’s unprecedented major weather event.

Gayndah fire captain Ron Mitchell said the area had received only a few millimetres of rain on Friday night before water rose quickly at Ban Ban Springs early on Saturday, as parts of the Wide Bay region copped an incredible 673mm.

The travelling couple, who had been enjoying a campfire just hours earlier, were swept away with their dog in their motorhome.

Firefighters and police were called to the scene after 5am.

Kidd Bridge under flood waters at Gympie. Picture: @mrseanconnelly/Instagram

“They climbed out through the window and had to swim to the edge of the water,” Mr Mitchell said.

“They were very fortunate that a couple had come through floodwater from down south and they heard the SOS call over a two-way radio.

“They made their way up to them and called for help.

“The couple is lucky to have their lives.”

Mr Mitchell said it was likely a wall of water came down Barambah Creek.

When he arrived on scene, he could see only the roof of the floating motorhome.

“There’s still a lot of water to come so god knows where that campervan will end up,” Mr Mitchell said.

The couple was in good spirits this morning.

They were taken to Gayndah by police for food and a change of clothes.

Originally published as Ban Ban Springs couple swim to safety in pyjamas as floodwaters rise swiftly