He underwent surgery and remained under police guard in Rockhampton hospital, with detectives awaiting advice from medical staff about when they can formally speak with him.

In a statement on Thursday morning, police said they had charged the Wandal man with one count of domestic-violence-related murder and entering with intent.

He was now expected to appear in the Rockhampton Magistrates Court within hours.

Ms Gilliland and two daughters had recently been helped by her coworkers to leave the relationship, with another child living with the man, Nine News reported.

Police confirmed on Wednesday the pair had been living in separate homes, but declined to comment further on whether the man was the children s’ father or if the incident was domestic-violence related.

Acting Inspector Luke Peachey said a “sharp-edged object” believed to have been used in the attack was found in the home and both the children and the emergency crews who responded had been left “shaken”.

“This is one of the worst scenes we’ve seen,” he said. “She suffered some horrific wounds.”

“It’s an absolutely tragic event that three children have lost their mother, that a father and mother have lost their daughter.”

Inspector Peachey told reporters at the scene on Tuesday that “the actual incident appears to have been witnessed by two young children”.

News Corp reported Ms Gilliland worked as nurse at the Rockhampton Hospital and has been remembered by friends as a devoted mother.

If you or someone you know needs help, support is available at DV Connect on 1800 811 811, Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyondblue on 1300 224 636, or 1800 RESPECT.