Burdekin LDMG and Emergency Services begin process of delivering resupplies to isolated communities

Emergency Services have begun the process of dropping resupply foods and essential medicines to residents after floodwaters isolated some communities for up to three days.

Burdekin Shire Council and Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) Chair Lyn McLaughlin said Emergency Services crews were currently travelling by high clearance vehicles and flood boats to access the Hodel Road area.

“Giru and surrounds, including Woodstock Giru Road, are currently only accessible by helicopter. Based on the current and forecasted weather conditions for the rest of today, no operators will currently fly in these unsafe conditions,” Cr McLaughlin said.

The Burdekin LDMG publicised the possibility of resupply earlier this morning and distributed a Resupply for Isolated Properties brochure to every inquiry that was received. This brochure detailed the items which were and were not allowable for resupply.

Cr McLaughlin said more than 40 requests for resupply were received within three hours.

Under the Queensland resupply guidelines, non-essential items will not be delivered.

“Obviously, space and weight are an absolute premium in the helicopter and flood boats.

“Unfortunately, many of the orders placed with local supermarkets included many non-allowable items and consequently, these items will not be currently delivered.

“All non-allowable items will be returned to the relevant local supermarket for your collection once the Bruce Highway reopens.”