Safety Is Paramount In Wet Weather

As severe wet weather continues to hamper the Burdekin region, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has warned locals not to be complacent as multiple reports of motorists driving through flooded roads continues to occur.

Mr Last said despite multiple warnings from authorities to stay off roads, reports of people driving through flooded roads has left local emergency services and community members risking their lives to help.

“Make no mistake this is a significant weather event and, while the Burdekin has not seen the level of flooding that our friends further north have, there is still a significant number of roads impacted by floodwater throughout the region,” Mr Last said.

“As a former police officer it’s incredibly frustrating when locals become complacent during events like these and decide a sightseeing venture is more important that their safety or the safety of others in our community.”

“Lets not forget that behind every orange raincoat, blue uniform, or at the wheel of our fire appliances, is someone’s loved one who has had to bravely put their lives on the line for your safety.”

“While the rain continues to fall, the best way you can assist local services and fellow community members, is by staying update with the latest forecasts and taking advice and warnings from trusted sources like our local disaster management groups.”

Mr Last said while the district was still receiving significant levels of rainfall earlier this week, the clean up effort across the North Queensland region would be a mammoth task.

“Each time the Burdekin is faced with severe weather we not only see our emergency service volunteers go above and beyond for others, we also see neighbours and strangers rolling up their sleeves to help others with clean up efforts and I have no doubt those efforts will continue to ramp up in the coming days.”

“To those who have taken the time away from their own families to help others in the community, I’d like to offer my personal thanks. We know that our SES play an integral part of our disaster response each and every severe weather season and they deserve our gratitude and support.”

“Already the Crisafulli Government has announced grants are available to residents in impacted areas. For those interested, please visit the Queensland disaster recovery support website or call: 1800-173-349 to check your eligibility and apply.”

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Flooded roads are not only hazardous but dangerous for drivers and emergency service rescue workers alike. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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