Livingstone Shire Local Disaster Management Group Stands Up
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The Livingstone Shire Local Disaster Management Group was activated on 9 November in response to a fast moving fire that is believed to have started along Cobraball Road and moved swiftly throughout the Lake Mary, Woodbury, Cooberrie and Byfield areas.
Livingstone Shire Mayor and Local Disaster Management Group Chair, Bill Ludwig confirmed that the Local Disaster Coordination Centre, which comprises of multiple agencies, had worked tirelessly throughout the night to ensure the highest standard of public safety was achieved with what was, and continues to be an unprecedented fire event.
Early reports indicate it has caused damage to approximately 6400ha of grazing, agricultural and bushland and damage to sixteen structures, including residences with some reported injuries.
“QFES predictive modelling and intel indicated that the fire’s behaviour was continually changing and unpredictable. Public safety was the major priority: protecting people and properties. Commendation must go to the firefighters and support agencies who have worked around the clock in defence of our community.
“A Disaster Declaration, which provide extraordinary powers to emergency services personnel for the protection of the public, was declared last night and enacted immediately by Queensland Police who visited hundreds of residents throughout the night into the early hours of the morning.
“Many residents chose to self-evacuate and sought shelter with family and friends, while over thirty people took refuge overnight in the Basketball Stadium, Cordingley Street Yeppoon. Our special thoughts are with those who have been impacted and suffered any loss.
“The LDMG will continue to meet regularly through today and coming days and support lead agency QFES and transition into the recovery phase of this severe event. Residents are strongly encouraged to stay updated via our Disaster Dashboard disaster.livingstone.qld.gov.au,” Cr Ludwig said.