As floodwaters in North Queensland begin to recede this week, communities across the Dawson electorate are assessing the damage and beginning the clean-up effort. Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox visited several flood-affected areas, meeting with residents, business owners, and local leaders to discuss the impact and ongoing response.
"At the first opportunity, when flooding subsided, I jumped in the 4WD and headed north, visiting towns in the Burdekin region including Gumlu, Home Hill, Ayr and Giru, then onto south Townsville at Cungulla and Nome," Mr Willcox said.
During his visit, Mr Willcox observed varying degrees of flood impact.
"Some areas were lucky to only have little to no floodwater on their property, but some homes and businesses copped the worst, even though they were well prepared," he said.
"Speaking with the locals and small business owners, I was blown away by their strength of character, with their efforts now turned towards the clean-up process, knowing there could be further rain and flooding to come.
"I wanted to ensure my constituents I was there to listen and offer any assistance, federal or otherwise."
In discussions with local officials, Mr Willcox met with Mayor Dalle Cort and CEO Matthew Magin of the Burdekin Shire Council to address concerns about potential major flooding.
"We discussed the impact of possible major flooding at Plantation Creek and other small creeks in the shire and to understand the plans moving forward," he said.
Upon reaching Townsville, Mr Willcox participated in a briefing at the Disaster Relief Command Centre.
"Alongside other leaders and emergency workers, we were provided updates on the weather system we were experiencing, before meeting with Queensland Premier David Crisafulli," he said.
"It was important that our Premier was made aware of areas of the Dawson electorate that had been affected by this catastrophic event."
"Since having the second downpour, I stand ready to return to the Burdekin region to talk to the people and offer what help I can," he said.
"In the meantime, if there are questions or issues, I invite residents to contact my office at Andrew.willcox.mp@aph.gov.au and my team and I are ready to assist."
Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox surveys flood-affected areas in North Queensland, meeting with residents and officials as recovery efforts continue. Photos supplied
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