Minister commends Ergon Energy for Mackay flood efforts

Mackay: Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson joined Deputy Premier Paul Lucas to inspect flood-ravaged Mackay today and praised the efforts of Ergon Energy workers for the way in which they responded to severe floods that struck the region.

Minister Wilson said Ergon crews had worked around the clock to restore power to homes and businesses after the worst floods in 90 years swept across the region.

“Hundreds of staff working in the field, as well as support staff have been on the job since early Friday morning (15/2/08).

“Ergon crews used a helicopter to deliver food supplies to several flood-bound homes in Andromachi near Proserpine.

“In Stanage Bay, north of Rockhampton, Ergon Energy flew in field crews to repair flood-damaged powerlines and to deliver food supplies and prescription medicines. The community was cut off by swollen floodwaters when five creeks on the main road to the township broke their banks.

“Ergon also provided a large mobile generator to supply power to around 200 customers in Mt Pleasant, Mackay, while flood-damaged equipment was being repaired.

“Every available Ergon Energy vehicle was on the road throughout the ordeal. The repair work itself was difficult. In some instances, Ergon crews had to carry all their equipment, on foot, through boggy, flooded country in rural areas.

“Around 70 crew members in Mackay worked up to 15-16 hours a day on a rotational roster. When exhausted crews reached their safe work limits, rested crews took over.

“Crews are on the ground this week repairing and carrying out inspections to flood damaged network supply equipment as part of Ergon’s post-flood maintenance program.

“Ergon Energy also assisted the local Mackay Counter Disaster Committee to provide contact details to customers in need of private electrical contractors to inspect their homes and businesses to make sure they were electrically safe and sound to reconnect.

“The response from Ergon Energy has been truly commendable. They were ready for action, and as a result, had power restored to affected homes and businesses as quickly as possible.

“In these trying times we should spare a thought for those Ergon Energy workers out in the field. It can be a hazardous job; it’s not nine to five. They put in a mighty effort and for that we owe them a debt of gratitude,” Mr Wilson said.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819