Suspicious white powder washes up on Queensland beaches

Two suspicious parcels containing white powder have washed up on beaches in the Bundaberg area in Queensland.

Both packages weigh one-kilogram and were discovered by members of the public on separate occasions in the past week.

The first was found at Elliot Heads on December 21 and the second was found on December 27 at Mon Repos.

Superintendent Craig Hawkins told reporters authorities were appealing for more information from the public over concerns the contents of the parcels could become a health risk if handled.

“This time of year those beaches are extremely popular, particularly with families and people visiting those areas, so our primary concern is that somebody finding the item and handling the item could in fact lead to dire consequences,” Superintendent Hawkins said.

Police will have the substance forensically tested to determine what it is.

However, Superintendent Hawkins added that the way the powder was packaged and the manner in which the parcels were found was concerning and suspicious.

“Our strong suspicion is obviously that it is an illicit substance and until we have it properly analysed then we won’t know for sure,” Superintendent Hawkins said.

Police say it is possible there are other packages that may wash up along the coast, due to ocean currents and tidal flows.

They are urging people to contact authorities if more are found.

If members of the public do come across other parcels, they are being told not to open them as the substance could be dangerous.

“Any further information we can get from the public may help us establish the locations of further packages,” Superintendent Hawkins said.

“Anyone who was at sea or on the coastline near these locations and saw anything suspicious in the water or other suspicious activity is urged to contact police.”