Helping hand for North Queenslanders affected by floods

Published Wednesday, 06 February, 2019 at 11:17 AM

Premier and Minister for Trade
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has rallied Queenslanders to dig deep and donate to help assist those communities affected by the North Queensland floods.

The Premier said her government on behalf of Queenslanders was chipping in $200,000 to kick-start the financial contributions to Non-Government Organisation partners – The Australian Red Cross Society, UnitingCare, Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland.

People can also donate to GIVIT which has an ongoing partnership with the Queensland Government.

“The generosity of Queenslanders always shines through in times of disaster,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“North Queensland’s unprecedented, catastrophic and ongoing flooding event has seen people evacuated, homes and businesses damaged, roads, schools and childcare centres closed.

“Sadly, two people have also lost their lives.

“While the flood waters recede, people are returning to their homes and the true extent of the damage is realised.

“First the flood, then the tears. North Queenslanders needs us now more than ever.”

The Premier said the generosity of people across the State would make a real difference in the lives of thousands of people impacted.

“Now is the time to dig deep and lend a helping hand to your fellow Queenslander,” she said.

“In the days and weeks ahead, I ask all Queenslanders to put yourselves in the shoes of North Queenslanders who will be dealing with this heartbreaking situation for a long time to come.”

Premier Palaszczuk urged residents in regions threatened by severe weather to stay up-to-date with warnings, take care on the roads, stay home if possible and if it flooded, forget it.

“We know the current weather can be unpredictable, so it’s absolutely essential that people stay informed of the latest developments and beware of localised flash flooding,” Premier Palaszczuk said.

For more information on how you can help residents affected by flooding and to make a donation through The Australian Red Cross Society, UnitingCare, Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland and GIVIT please visit www.qld.gov.au/emergency/emergencies-services/help-disaster

ENDS

Media contact: Shane Doherty – 0439 624 473