Multi-faceted response continues across the State

With much of the State swinging into recovery and clean-up; authorities continue the search of the Lockyer Valley for missing people and monitor the flood waters that are wreaking havoc in the communities of Condamine and Goondiwindi.

State Disaster Coordinator, Deputy Commissioner Ian Stewart said that search and rescue teams, including police, SES, QFRS and ADF personnel continue the grim task of searching vast areas of land and waterways in the Lockyer Valley.

“We are hopeful that the methodical searches of the township of Grantham will be completed by tomorrow. Searching also continues across vast areas of land.

“Searching of waterways stretching from the Lockyer Valley down to the mouth of the Brisbane River is also on-going,” he said.

Currently 28 people are listed as missing, with police holding grave fears for 12 for people.

“We remain committed, resolute and determined to this task and finding out for families and friends what has happened to their loved ones,” SDC Stewart said.

Flood waters continue to inundate Queensland communities with the townships of Condamine and Goondiwindi in the grip of flooding.

“The people of Condamine, who were evacuated last week due to flooding, who then returned and began the heart breaking task of cleaning up homes and businesses decimated by floods, have had to go through it all again.

“The flood peak is expected within the next 48-hours and will peak at levels slightly lower than last week. Still a devastating flood event for a community which has already suffered so much,” SDC Stewart said.

The river at Goondiwindi is currently around 10.6 metres and falling, however is expected to remain high for another day or so. The levee system is working well with authorities continuing to closely monitor it.

Recovery efforts are in full swing in many rural and South East Queensland communities with authorities continuing to see an army of volunteers pulling together to help out.

“Many towns and cities across Queensland have been directly impacted by the unprecedented flooding that has struck our State.

Recovery operations in towns like Alpha, Jericho, Emerald and Rockhampton have been underway now for some time. The people of the South East are now also faced with a daunting and heartbreaking clean-up.

“Some 6,000 volunteers have hit the streets of Brisbane and Ipswich today. It is inspiring to see complete strangers lending a hand,” SDC Stewart said.

When you hear a flood warning

• Listen to your local radio station for severe storm advice and warnings;
• Plan to move vehicles, outdoor equipment, garbage, chemicals and poisons to higher locations;
• Plan which indoor items you will raise or empty if water threatens your home (e.g. freezers and refrigerators); and
• Check your emergency kit and safeguard your pets.

What to do if you need to evacuate

• Pack warm clothing, essential medications, valuables, personal papers, mobile phone, photos and mementos in waterproof bags to be taken with your emergency kit;
• Raise furniture, clothing and valuables on to beds, tables and into roof spaces;
• Empty freezers and refrigerators, leaving doors open;
• Turn off power, water and gas;
• Whether you leave or stay, put sandbags in the toilet bowl and over all laundry/bathroom drain holes to prevent sewage back-flow;
• Lock your home and take recommended evacuation routes for your area; and

Police rmind motorists not to attempt to cross flooded roads or causeways.  Do not risk your life, the lives of those in your vehicle and the lives of rescuers.  Nothing is so important that you need to enter floodwaters. 

·         Bureau of Meteorology website for up to date weather information, including up-coming forecasts www.bom.gov.au ;

·         The Traffic and Travel information line on 13 19 40 or http://131940.qld.gov.au – for road closure information

·         RACQ road closure site on 1300 130 595 or http://www.racq.com.au/travel/Maps_and_Directions/road_conditions

·         For more information about flood and cyclone preparation and emergency kits can be found at www.disaster.qld.gov.au;

·         Monitor local councils and local radio stations for local information and updates.

People experiencing personal hardship due to the flooding can call 1800 173 349, or visit the Department of Communities web site  for updates on the types and availability of support.

If you would like to donate to the Premier’s Flood Relief appeal please call 1800 219 028

Primary producers are urged to contact the Queensland Rural Adjustment Authority for assistance.

For practical health advice during and after floods visit the Queensland Health website.

If you have a question about your insurance policy, or need help identifying your insurer, call the Insurance Council of Australia's 24-hour emergency hotline on 1300 728 228.