Family to mark drowned girl's birthday
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Nelani Koefer died after part of the Bedford weir collapsed, near Blackwater. (ABC TV News: Photo courtesy of family)
Family and friends will gather this afternoon in Blackwater in central Queensland to celebrate what would have been the fifth birthday of Nelani Koefer.
The four-year-old drowned last week after the bladder on the Bedford weir split, pouring thousands of megalitres of water into the river as she was swimming in it.
She was laid to rest on Saturday in Rockhampton and a special memorial service will be held at 2:00pm AEST today at the Civic Centre in Blackwater.
The Queensland Government has passed on its condolences to the family.
Water Minister Craig Wallace visited the site last week and has told Parliament it is a difficult time for the community.
"I met with the Central Highlands Regional Mayor Peter Maguire during my visit to ascertain the feelings of the community and to pass on our condolences," he said.
"A community memorial service is being held in Blackwater today.
"Mr Speaker, this is obviously a very difficult time for the community and our thoughts remain with the family of the little girl who tragically died."
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