A 25-year-old woman has tragically drowned at a popular swimming spot near Alice Springs, prompting a police investigation and renewed warnings about water safety in remote areas.

Authorities were called to Ellery Creek Big Hole at around 12:50pm on Sunday after reports that CPR was already being performed on the woman. The incident unfolded at the well-known natural waterhole in the Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, a location popular with tourists, campers, and locals seeking relief from the desert heat.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, where bystanders had attempted to resuscitate the woman before paramedics arrived. Once on site, paramedics immediately took over CPR and continued advanced life-saving efforts in a desperate attempt to revive her. Despite their prolonged efforts, the woman could not be saved and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Police have since confirmed that the area has been closed to the public while investigations are carried out into the circumstances surrounding the drowning. Officers are working to determine exactly what happened in the moments leading up to the emergency, including how the woman came into difficulty in the water.

While early details remain limited, authorities have stressed that there is no immediate suggestion of suspicious circumstances. However, the focus remains on establishing a clear timeline of events and understanding whether environmental conditions or other factors may have contributed to the tragedy.

In the aftermath of the incident, police issued a strong reminder to visitors about the importance of water safety, particularly in remote and natural swimming locations. They urged people to be cautious around waterways, to assess risks before entering the water, and to always follow local safety advice.

Ellery Creek Big Hole is one of the most visited natural attractions in central Australia, known for its striking red rock formations, clear water, and scenic surroundings. Located about an hour west of Alice Springs, it is a popular stop for road trippers exploring the Northern Territory and a common spot for swimming during warmer months.

However, authorities have repeatedly warned that remote waterholes can pose hidden dangers, including sudden depth changes, cold water temperatures, and limited access to immediate rescue services.

As the investigation continues, the local community and visitors alike are left shaken by the sudden loss of a young life in a place often associated with relaxation and natural beauty.

SOURCE: https://7news.com.au/news/woman-25-drowns-at-ellery-creek-big-hole-in-the-northern-territory–c-22131125