State shores up Ipswich flood defences

The Ipswich region will have improved protection from devastating floods with the Newman Government providing a $33,164 grant for a new flood alert system in the hard hit suburb of Goodna.

Community Recovery and Resilience Minister David Crisafulli said the money would allow the Ipswich City Council to install a new flood gauge in the Brisbane River to boost the existing alert network.

“We’re carrying out the most ambitious infrastructure plan in a generation,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“It will mark a turning point for communities threatened by flooding, and to achieve that, it has to be community led.

“Locals know best what their community needs to be protected, and we’ll drive maximum value from the funds that we’ve got to deliver those defences.”

Mr Crisafulli said the project would also have a flow on effect for flooding in Brisbane as it would give emergency workers more accurate readings of river flood levels and allow them to better plan and prepare in times of flood.

“The Newman Government is determined to make sure the community is protected,” he said.

“After years of governments being focused on rebuilding after disasters, we’re recognising that floods are part of life here in Queensland and we’ve got to defend ourselves,” he said.

“This government is looking to the future, and is determined to let communities take the lead on flood protection.

“This funding for Ipswich City Council to install a much needed flood alert gauge in Goodna will make everyone safer.”

[ENDS] 30 August 2013

Media contact: Monica Rostron 0409 126 332