More disaster relief activated for North-West Queensland

The State’s Disaster Coordination Centre has been activated following continued monsoonal flooding in the state’s North West.

Treasurer and Acting Emergency Services Minister Andrew Fraser said the centre would help to coordinate assistance across 12 disaster-declared local government areas – after relief assistance was activated for a further four shires in north western Queensland today.

“I personally toured parts of the region yesterday. It was a staggering sight to see such vast lands normally under drought conditions underwater, Mr Fraser said.

“Today, joint State and Commonwealth-funded Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) have been activated for Diamantina Shire Council, Doomadgee Aboriginal Shire Council, Etheridge Shire Council and Winton Shire Council areas.

“The additional activation takes the latest estimates of damage to local roads and public infrastructure to $21.5 million.

“This NDRRA assistance will help restore essential public assets, primarily roads, and counter-disaster costs incurred by local councils.’’

If any individuals do suffer personal hardship as a result of the storms and associated flooding, they can apply to the Department of Communities for assistance, on 1800 173 349.

A number of North-West Queensland towns remain cut off due to poor road conditions and flooding including Mount Isa, Julia Creek, Burketown, Urandangie, Dajarra and Boulia.

Member for Mount Isa Betty Kiernan said with the possibility of continuing rain in the region, safety should be a high priority for residents.

“People are urged not to play or drive in flooded areas, or attempt to drive through flooded causeways or over flooded bridges,’’ Mrs Kiernan said.

“Residents should check on road conditions with their local authorities or visit www.racq.com.au.’’

Emergency Management Queensland EMQ is also asking people to consider the following:

·Listen to your local radio station for warnings and advice.

·Be aware of the dangers of flash flooding in drains, creeks and causeways after heavy rain and stay away from these areas.

·Prepare to move vehicles, outdoor equipment, garbage, chemicals and poisons to higher locations.

·Consider which indoor items you will raise (eg furniture, clothing etc.) or empty (refrigerators, freezers etc.) if water threatens to enter your home.

·Check your emergency kit and consider what you will do with your pets.

For advice during flood times members of the public are urged to visit www.disaster.qld.gov.au and for the latest weather reports visit the Bureau of Meteorology website at www.bom.gov.au.

Media Contact:

Treasurer's Office: 3224 6361
Emergency Services: 3247 8997