Recovery hubs open

THREE community recovery hubs for people impacted by recent flooding were opened yesterday in some of the towns hardest hit by the devastation.

The hubs are now open in Gatton, Laidley and Warwick to provide financial assistance and support services to eligible residents.

“We know that some people and families in these regions have only just recovered from the February floods and now they have been impacted again,” Communities and Housing Minister Leeanne Enoch said.

“These hubs are a place where residents can talk to community recovery workers, receive referrals for community organisations and other government agencies and those who are experiencing hardship can apply for grants for this May flood event.

“This includes Emergency Hardship Assistance grants, of up to $180 per person and $900 for a family of five or more, to help cover the costs of essential items, such as food, medication and clothing, for people who have been directly impacted by this disaster.

“Such significant flood events only several weeks apart can cause distress and trauma for people affected, and the community recovery hubs can also assist people who need emotional or psychosocial support.”

The Gatton hub is located at the Gatton RSL Club on 52 Crescent Street; the Laidley hub is at Laidley Sports Complex and Recreational Reserve on Whites Road; while the Warwick hub is at Southern Downs Industry Education Association on 163 Palmerin Street.

A fourth pop-up hub in Beachmere will operation from 9am to 12pm from Wednesday, May 18 to Sunday May 22 at the Beachmere Area Network Group in Main Street.

Ms Enoch said people affected by flooding could apply for grants, or find out more information either over the phone or online.

To check eligibility, find documents required and apply online at qld.gov.au/SEQFloodRecoveryMay2022 or call 1800 173 349.

Meanwhile Lockyer Valley Regional Council has approved a number of measures to assist in the flood clean-up.

A kerbside clean-up of residential and small business flood debris will continue until June 13, while domestic and small business food waste will be accepted without charge at all waste facilities in the region.

Members of the 11th Engineer Regiment have been assisting in the flood clean-up and recovery.