North West Queensland Floods:Helicopter being moved into Mt Isa; extra emergency personnel moved into area; travellers warned to stay put

The State Government has moved swiftly to address transport issues around the flooded North West, moving the back-up helicopter based in Townsville to Mount Isa, Treasurer and Acting Emergency Services Minister Andrew Fraser said.

“The area around Mount Isa, Boulia, Julia Creek, Dajarra and Camooweal is inundated and helicopters are finding it impossible to land, so we need one with a winch,” Mr Fraser said.

“This afternoon the Bell 412 helicopter is traveling from Townsville into the area to allow welfare checks and the capability to evacuate people if necessary.

“We do not want to see community resources stretched beyond capacity and put any services at risk, therefore we have made the decision to increase helicopter capabilities.

“We’ve also moved three EMQ staff from Townsville to Mount Isa to assist coordinate activities but there are no plans at this stage for further personnel movements.”

Mr Fraser also authorised the movement of 1300kg of perishable foodstuffs and medical supplies to Burketown.

Member for Mount Isa Betty Kiernan warned people trying to travel through the flooded areas of North West Queensland to stay put.

“I know people will be wanting to start to return home for school term, but the latest advice is that the towns of Mount Isa and Julia Creek are still cut off by flood water, so no road traffic is possible,” Mrs Kiernan said.

“Also the road to Darwin from Mount Isa is likely to be closed for at least two weeks, due to damage caused by the flood waters.

“Parents worried about the kids starting the new school year should consider making alternative arrangements to return home. It is not worth the risk of being stopped by road closures.”

“I want to congratulate all those volunteers and emergency services folk who are managing this current problem. Right across the North West the community is working together to ensure that life goes on.”

Media Contact: Treasurer's Office - 3224 5982
Emergency Services Minister's Office - 3247 8997