Hats off to Cyclone Larry recovery effort

Eight months after Cyclone Larry devastated parts of far north Queensland, the helping hand of the Department of Communities’ cyclone recovery team has now been extended 50,000 times.

Communities Minister Warren Pitt said that by last week, the department had handled more than 50,000 contacts with local residents, an average of more than 200 a day since the cyclone hit on March 20.

“The Department of Communities has 36 dedicated recovery workers delivering support services through our one-stop shops in Babinda, Malanda and Innisfail, the 1800 recovery phone line, and a specialist case management service that helps clients with repairs to homes,” he said.

“A further 21 support staff are also part of this recovery program.

“As at 22 November, these officers had handled more than 50,000 contacts with local people who were affected by the cyclone.

“To date, we have also distributed $11.4 million in relief assistance payments to eligible applicants, covering emergency relief, essential home contents and repairs to dwellings.

“This is excellent progress and these efforts have made a big difference to people’s lives.”

Mr Pitt said north Queenslanders had shown plenty of spirit during what had been a very tough year, and now a sense of stability and optimism was being restored to these communities.

“A great example of this community spirit is the recent launch of a book produced by local Innisfail group, Mothers Helping Others,” he said.

“The book – Cyclone Larry: tales of survival from the children of North Queensland – is a collection of stories and artworks by local children who experienced the cyclone.

“It includes contributions from more than 300 children, from kindergarten age to secondary school students.

“All proceeds from the sale of the book will go towards upgrading local playgrounds, so in effect these children are part of local efforts to rebuild their communities. These books are available through some retail outlets for $25 and can also be purchased online through eBay.

“This example shows that these communities have come a long way since March, but there is more work to do, and Cyclone Larry recovery efforts will continue into 2007."

Media contact: Joe Begley 3235 4280