Tributes Flow for Woman Who Died After 80-Metre Fall at Queensland Waterfall
Kate Cooper, 36, is being remembered as a “loving, caring, beautiful” person after a tragic fall from a cliff at Mapleton Falls in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, about 90 kilometres north of Brisbane, last Friday afternoon.
Emergency crews were called to the popular walking spot around 3:30pm following reports of a woman falling from a height. After an hour-long search, Ms Cooper was located but sadly died at the scene. Authorities are not treating her death as suspicious. An 18-year-old man was also taken to hospital in stable condition. The area had experienced heavy rainfall earlier that day.
Partner Grieves Loss of ‘Beautiful’ Soul
Ms Cooper’s partner, Simon Rosenkranz, said he was devastated by the loss. The couple, who had recently moved in together and were planning for a family, shared a deep bond through their love of nature and hiking.
Mr Rosenkranz described Ms Cooper as “everyone’s best friend,” praising her kindness and adventurous spirit. He recounted fond memories, including how she charmed his parents, even impressing his German father with her Black Forest cake.
Adventurous Spirit Remembered
Nature was a major part of their connection. They spent time hiking in the Sunshine Coast hinterland and tackling challenging climbs like the Caves Route at Mt Tibrogargan. Despite the dangers, Mr Rosenkranz said Ms Cooper showed bravery and fearlessness during their adventures.
Reflecting on the tragedy, he admitted having a “gut feeling” that something had gone wrong that day. Though not present at the time, he believes Ms Cooper may have slipped in an unfortunate accident. He vowed to continue hiking in her memory.
Recent Tragedies at Sunshine Coast Waterfalls
Ms Cooper’s death marks the third fatality at Sunshine Coast waterfalls this year. In January, 17-year-olds Honor Ward and Beau Liddell died at Wappa Falls after entering the water. Past incidents at Wappa Falls include drownings in 2022, 2010, and 2007.
Following these tragedies, calls for improved safety measures have been raised, with authorities awaiting coronial findings before considering changes.
Safety Reminder Issued
A spokesperson for the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation expressed condolences to Ms Cooper’s family and reminded visitors to heed warning signs and barriers in natural areas.
A full coronial report into Ms Cooper’s death is being prepared.
