DANCED TO DEATH.

King Country Chronicle, Volume XVII, Issue 1647, 11 March 1922, Page 2

DANCED TO DEATH.

PICNICKERS IN DARK WATERS. LAUNCH AWNING COLLAPSES. Brisbane, February 27. A “dance to death” might aptly describe the fate of three members of a party of picnickers who were drowned in the Brisbane River when returning down stream from 17-mile Rocks last night on the motor-boat Bona Fair. The pai'ty numbered about 40 young people, many of whom were sitting or standing on the awning of the boat, when it suddenly collapsed near Toowong Ferry. Previously there had been some dancing or jumping about on the awning, and the skipper had issued a warning. When the frail platform went from under them, most of the picnickers were thrown into the water. A. scene of great confusion and excitement followed in the daik waters. Cries for help rent the air, and they could be heard by people living on the riverside bouses, who, however, were powerless to render aid. A tally of the party made later revealed that the following were missing:— Miss Rita Gilling, 23 years. Leonard Francis Crozier,, 19 years. William McGuire, 24 years. Miss Lilian Crozier was removed to the General Hospital suffering from a fractured rib, and injuries to the chest and abdomen. The Bona Fair had been chartered by members of the Herston Tennis Club for a picnic. All went well during the day, and the party was in good spirits on the homeward trip, singing and laughing merrily. The accident occurred about eight o’clock. The darkness of night rendered the work of rescue difficult. Those on board, however, did all possible to save the others, and directly the accident happened, the engine was stopped. After all- those in the water, who were close to the boat, were picked up, it was restarted, and the little vessel cruised about for the best part of an hour before continuing its homeward journey. A boat that was in the vicinity also made a search, but evidently did not rescue anyone.

The Water Police carried out dragging operations without result.