9 Feb 2009

Three missing in floodwaters

10:41 am on 9 February 2009

Three people are missing in floodwaters in north Queensland, including a boy feared to have been taken by a crocodile.

The boy, aged five, reportedly followed his dog into floodwaters during a walk with his brother, aged seven, at Cape Tribulation at the Daintree about 9.30am (AEDT) on Sunday. Grave fears are held for his safety.

Police say the brother saw a large crocodile near where the boy disappeared.

A search for him resumed at first light on Monday.

Two men, both aged 34, are feared drowned in floodwaters at Silky Oak, south of Tully.

They were in a vehicle with five others when it was swept away by floodwaters on the Bruce Highway at 9.30am (AEST) on Sunday. The others were rescued.

About 62% of the state is under water since cyclones brought heavy rain in January. However, the weather bureau says rainfall is starting to ease.