Mareeba: Teenage boy disappears down drainwater pipe only to pushed out again on another street

A teenager is lucky to be alive after being swept into a stormwater drain during the Queensland flood crisis, and was then miraculously pushed out of another drain hole in a totally different street.

Queensland Police are warning residents not to play in or drive through floodwaters after the terrifying incident.

Huge downpours and flash flooding were responsible for the incident on Tuesday before emergency crews were called when the 15-year-old boy was swept into a stormwater drain on the intersection of James and Basalt Street, in Mareeba.

Police located the boy on Reynolds Street after he incredibly re-emerged with minor injuries, including cuts and grazes.

He was transported to hospital for assessment.

Mareeba Police Sgt. Daley Boney said the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of flood waters.

“We strongly advise parents to highlight these dangers to their children, to ensure they aren’t putting themselves in unnecessary risk by playing in stormwater drains, rivers and parklands,” Sgt. Boney said.

“There is also the chance that wildlife like snakes, spiders and even crocodiles could be moving about the flooded waterways, which pose a separate risk.

“The wet weather is expected during this time of year, but it does not mean we should be complacent.

“We will do everything we can to make sure everyone stays safe and makes it home to their loved ones.”

Motorists are also urged to play it safe and abide by road rules, including road closed signs that have been erected to stop people driving through flooded waters.

If you disobey road signs, it will result in a penalty such as a fine and loss of demerit points.

In an emergency, contact triple zero (000).

If you are seeking information relating to road closures, please visit: Road Condition Information – QLDTraffic.