Queensland crews head west to support cyclone clean-up

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced specialist crews from Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) are travelling to Western Australia today to assist crews continuing to support communities with widespread damage caused by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Seroja.

“WA has helped Queensland in our hours of need, now it’s our turn to help,” the Premier said.

“We have crews travelling today to help our neighbours in the West as they begin to recover from Ex-Tropical Cyclone Seroja.”

Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Mark Ryan said more than 20 QFES personnel were deploying to WA to provide relief to crews in the state.

“Twenty-two State Emergency Service storm damage volunteers are deploying today, and additional crews deploying tomorrow to bolster response operations in communities affected in WA. These crews are highly experienced in storm damage response operations and will provide a welcome relief for WA crews,” Mr Ryan said.

“We have seen some devastating images and vision from WA which demonstrates the severity of ex-Tropical Cyclone Seroja. The crews being deployed can work at heights and will primarily undertake storm damage operations, including roof repairs.”

QFES Acting Commissioner Mike Wassing said QFES crews would be on the ground in affected areas from today. 

“I’m pleased that Queensland can provide crews to relieve our WA colleagues, just as they have helped us in recent times,” Mr Wassing said.

“Our staff and volunteers will join the massive response efforts from today and are expected to return home on Tuesday at this stage.

“We’re no strangers to the impact severe weather has on communities here in Queensland and we understand what’s required on the ground, so I’m confident our crews will be of great assistance this week.”

“Queenslanders can also be re-assured that we have more than sufficient resources in the state should they be required to assist in an unexpected incident or disaster,” concluded Mr Wassing.

Media contacts
Minister Ryan’s Office: Ph: (07) 3035 8300
QFES Media: Ph: (07) 3635 3310