Eleanor Thompson: British traveller tragically crushed to death by own van in NSW during Cyclone Alfred
A British woman described by her family as “full” of adventure and movement” was tragically killed after being crushed by her own van in northern New South Wales during cyclone Alfred.
Eleanor Thompson, 35 was found dead beneath her vehicle near Mullumbimby on March 11, an inquest in the UK has heard.
The free spirited traveller — who had been exploring Australia and working in a local pub — was discovered by friends after failing to show up for her shift.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.A police report read to Ruthin Coroner’s Court in Wales revealed that severe weather from Tropical Cyclone Alfred was battering the region at the time of her death.
“Although no causal link can be drawn, it’s of significance that at the time of her passing an unprecedented and severe tropical cyclone was impacting the region,” the report said.
Miss Thompson was originally from Mold, Flintshire, where she had spent 12 years living in London, working across insurance, marketing and events — including stints at Apple TV and the exclusive Groucho Club — before embarking on a life of travel.
In 2022, she set off on a solo journey through Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, later returning to the UK before heading to Australia in 2023.
Her father, Peter Thompson, told the inquest his daughter’s life had been “full of adventure and movement”.
“Ellie made everyone feel seen and valued,” he said.
The inquest heard she last contacted her mother, Amanda Thompson, on March 9 — three days before she was discovered dead.
Friends discovered her van off a driveway, wedged in thick vegetation.
A post-mortem found she died of multiple injuries with authorities thinking the vehicle may have rolled or slid forward because of the slope or wet weather, due to the handbrake not being applied.
Mr Thompson said their family had visited the site and still struggled with the “unanswered element” of why Ellie was in front of the van when it moved.
Coroner John Gittins recorded a verdict of accidental death, telling her family “You must be incredibly proud.”
“The tributes we had on social media and from her friends, it was truly, truly moving,” he said.
“She lived her life to the fullest.”
Originally published on PerthNow
