Flood money for Cairns

Two years after record rains wreaked havoc across Queensland, the Newman Government has announced funding for Cairns Regional Council to strengthen the community’s defences against floods.

Council has received $105,964 from the Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program-Flood Response 2012-2013 to improve local flood warning systems on local roads and Freshwater Creek.

Local Government Minister David Crisafulli said it’s vital work gets underway as soon as possible.

“This money will allow Council to install solar powered imaging cameras to monitor water levels at the Thomatis Creek culvert and bridge on the Captain Cook Highway at Yorkey’s Knob,” Mr Crisafulli said.

The technology will also be installed at the Mulgrave River crossing at Peets Bridge.

“The images will be sent directly to the local disaster coordination centre and will be available on the Council’s website so residents can decide on the safest evacuation route.”

Councils across the State will share in $13.4 million this year to deliver the Queensland Floods Commission of Inquiry recommendations.

It is the first instalment of a $40 million fund to be rolled out over the next three years.

“The state’s 73 councils are in the best position to deliver what’s needed to protect their communities against future floods.

“We’ll do our bit to help them by getting the money from this year’s budget out to them as soon as possible,” Mr Crisafulli said.

 “In a state like Queensland, no one can afford to be complacent about preventing damage from natural disasters.

“It’s not a matter of “If” there’s the next big flood; it’s a matter of being prepared when it happens.”

[ENDS] 26 November, 2012

Media Contact: Monica Rostron 0409 126 332

                            Andrew Longmire 0418 216 627