Cr Column Councillor John Furnell

Wow, what a challenging fortnight for North Queensland. The constant rain tested a lot of us to different extents. The Burdekin certainly copped its fair share, to all of you thank you for the spirit you’ve shown, neighbours helping neighbours, strangers assisting strangers and many acts of kindness.
To the emergency services, local and those deployed in, it was reassuring to have you in the shire. To all other agencies who have taken part in the Local Disaster Management Group meetings, your input, practical advice and pertinent suggestions is assisting the Burdekin through the 2025 rain event. Burdekin Shire Council employees in all areas have gone above and beyond in their respective roles. Not wanting to single persons out, I must give a shout out to Eileen Devescovi for steering the Shires response.
With all emergency events there will always be learnings and this one is no different. The learnings will improve and make even more robust our systems in readiness for the next one, not too soon I hope. The important point is not to just build back but to ‘build back better’, to be more resilient in the future.
I want to make a call out to anyone contemplating volunteering. Our SES has stepped up once again, even though small in number they punched well above their weight. If you’re wondering about helping out call their experienced SES leader Warren Francis on 0476 781 902, male/female 18 years ( 16 but need parents permission ) upwards.
Check in on your neighbours/friends and even strangers you may come across. Remember there are agencies to help if you need something more eg Recovery Centres, Burdekin Community Association, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Burdell, your local church, Salvos, Lifeline, Red Cross to name but a few.
Wishing you health, happiness and personal strength in this current challenge.
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Councillor John

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