Flood cost still rising
THE true extent of losses from flooding in North West Queensland are not expected to be known for at least six months.
Flinders Shire Mayor Jane Mcnamara said the stock losses and cost to graziers could not be finalised as there would be more to come.
“We’re really not going to know, it’s probably six months until we get some idea,” Cr Mcnamara said.
Joint Task Force 646 Commander Brigadier Stephen Jobson and Queensland State Recovery Coordinator Major General Stuart Smith (Retired) were in Hughenden yesterday to discuss how to deploy State Government resources to the region.
THE full extent of the flood damage caused to northwest Queensland communities will be unknown for at least “six months” as an action plan is developed for the devastated region’s recovery.
Joint Task Force 646 commander Brigadier Stephen Jobson and Queensland state recovery co-ordinator Major General Stuart Smith (retired) held consultations with local government in Hughenden yesterday to discuss how to deploy State Government resources.
Flinders Shire Mayor Jane Mcnamara said the stock losses and cost to graziers could not be accounted for, as there would be more to come.
“We’re really not going to know – in probably six months until we get some idea,” Cr Mcnamara said.
“It’s very confronting, as a mother, that these things are happening … Emotionally, it’s very tough. I can’t even start to think what those people who’ve lost 100 per cent of their herds are going through.”
Brig Jobson said the Australian Defence Force would be helping coordinate and integrate local resources for the carcass disposal strategic masterplan.
“It is designed to mobilise the resources here in the region in North West Queensland to support the health and safety and morale of families here,” he said.
“And to start us on the path of returning economic vibrancy to this very important part of Australia.”
In the past couple of weeks, JTF 646, which at its height comprised 150 army, navy and air force personnel, delivered more than 43 tonnes of fodder and 42,000 litres of aviation fuel in support for Cloncurry, Mckinlay, Richmond and Gulf of Carpentaria shires.
Brig Jobson said ADF personnel were no longer delivering fodder or fuel to communities because floodwaters had receded.
“Cattle producers are advising us that there is sufficient livestock feed being delivered and that there is growth in the ground for the cattle to sustain themselves,” Brig Jobson said.
Mr Smith said protecting local economies and businesses as well as restoring major roads and infrastructure were important steps on the road to recovery.
“I’m looking forward to continuing to work with the local government authorities as we develop a plan to support their priorities,” he said.
Mr Smith said community recovery hubs described as “one-stop shops” had already been established to support families dealing with the trauma of the disaster.
“(The hubs) assist people in connecting with disaster loans and grants to get them back on their feet,” he said. It is understood the masterplan will be completed by Thursday and ratified by government representatives.
I’m looking forward to continue to work with the local government authorities as we develop a plan to support pp their priorities. STUART SMITH