Ingham flood recovery takes another step forward

The Palaszczuk Government’s community recovery efforts in Ingham following widespread flooding in the area in March are winding down as the community gets back on its feet.

Communities Minister Coralee O’Rourke said more than $1.4 million in jointly-funded Commonwealth-State government grants had already been paid out to support the recovery of people affected by the North Queensland flood event, including Ingham residents.

“The Community Recovery Referral and Information Centre (CRICC) in Ingham will close tomorrow (Friday 13 April) due to a significant drop in demand,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“I’m proud of the way this resilient community has banded together and worked hard to get back on its feet and get back to normality after devastating flooding impacted the area last month.

“The closure of the Ingham CRRIC is a testament to how well this community has done to recover from this disaster.

“However, this closure doesn’t mean our community recovery efforts are ceasing entirely in the area.

“People who are still trying to recover and require advice and assistance can continue to phone the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.

“We will also have staff available at the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre at 52/54 Mcilwraith St, Ingham for the next week – until Friday 20 April – to finalise any outstanding grant applications and assist with enquiries that may arise.” 

The CRICC, located at TAFE Queensland North’s Ingham campus, 74 Townsville Road, Ingham, will close its doors and cease operations tomorrow, Friday 13 April at 5pm.

Close to 3500 Emergency Hardship Assistance grants have been distributed to residents of the Hinchinbrook Shire Council area who experienced genuine hardship following this flooding. 

Mrs O’Rourke said applications for longer term assistance grants were still available for individuals and families.

“These longer-term grants include means and income-tested Essential Household Contents Grants, Structural Assistance Grants and Essential Services Safety Reconnection Scheme Grants,’ she said.

“We have a transition strategy in place and we will continue to support the recovery of this community and continue to support the Hinchinbrook Regional Council to lead the recovery of their community.”

ENDS

Media Contact: Benjamin Mulcahy 0419 562 389