Orts are not the end of the road
performed, in close cooperation with, and under the direction of the emergency services was exemplary.
The risks we took in conducting evacuations over a 24h period in dark, wet and chaotic conditions is testament to the capability of our junior leaders.
I am not surprised by the high standard of our efforts; however we should not take this for granted.
That our soldiers and leaders had the discipline to put the welfare of our community first, often while their own homes were flooded and families evacuated is an example of selfless devotion to our duty.
The longer-term work of rebuilding our community is off to a good start. There have been long, hot and difficult days while we have helped the Townsville community to stand back up.
We remain part of a strong community.
We are not going anywhere, and we will continue to be involved in the longer term recovery of Townsville and the recovery of our flood affected families.
Operation North Queensland Flood Assist has been a testing time for all of us. We have worked intimately with the Queensland Emergency Services, and deepened the professional and personal bonds that enable the Australian Defence Force to continue to serve our community.
This disaster response is not the end of the road for us. The 3rd Brigade, and all Defence Force units in North Queensland remain focused on our responsibilities for the remainder of the high risk weather season.
We remain ready to provide timely and effective support if called on again.