Key Takeaways
- A man in his 40s had to walk 40 kilometers to find help after his vehicle became bogged in north-west Queensland due to flooding.
- The Mount Isa-based LifeFlight crew rescued the man and two others who were stranded in their ute.
- Floodwaters remain in parts of north-west Queensland, leaving houses isolated and causing damage to livestock and livelihoods.
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is visiting Cloncurry to assess flood damage.
- There is a moderate risk of a tropical low developing in the north-west Coral Sea, which could bring heavy rainfall and increase flood risk.
- The true cost of the flood damage is still unknown, but over 19,000 head of livestock are dead or missing, and 919 kilometers of fencing have been damaged.
Introduction to the Floods
The recent floods in north-west Queensland have caused widespread damage and disruption to communities, with many people left stranded and in need of help. A man in his 40s had to walk 40 kilometers to find assistance after his vehicle became bogged, and was later rescued by the Mount Isa-based LifeFlight crew. The crew also rescued two other men who were stranded in their ute. The floods have left many houses isolated, and the town of Winton remains cut off as the floodwater slowly makes its way into Channel Country.
Rescue Efforts
The Mount Isa-based LifeFlight crew has been working tirelessly to rescue those stranded in the floodwaters. On Sunday, they found a vehicle 140 kilometers south of Hughenden and tracked the footprints of the man who had walked 40 kilometers to find help. The man was suffering from dehydration and was taken to hospital. The crew also rescued two men who were stranded in their ute 70 kilometers south of Hughenden on Sunday night. The rescue efforts are ongoing, and the crew is working to reach those in need of assistance.
Impact on Communities
The floods have had a significant impact on the communities in north-west Queensland. Many people have been left stranded, and the town of Winton remains isolated. The floodwaters have caused damage to livestock and livelihoods, with over 19,000 head of livestock reported dead or missing. The Queensland Department of Primary Industries has confirmed that 919 kilometers of fencing have been damaged, and nearly 1,600 kilometers of private roads have been affected. The true cost of the flood damage is still unknown, but it is expected to be significant.
Government Response
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is visiting Cloncurry to assess the flood damage and provide support to those affected. The Queensland Government has announced funding for Winton Shire Council to investigate flood mitigation infrastructure options for the Winton pump station. The funding will be used to carry out a feasibility study into flood mitigation measures, including developing a concept design of a flood levee to safeguard water infrastructure and enhance the town’s water security during future flooding events. The government has also urged people to contact their local council if they are in need of supplies, including medical needs, food, and fodder.
Weather Forecast
The weather forecast is still a concern, with a moderate risk of a tropical low developing in the north-west Coral Sea. This could bring heavy rainfall and increase the flood risk. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has warned that up to 50 millimeters of rain is forecast for the north tropical coast and Northern Tablelands before Thursday. A strong wind warning remains in place for the Cairns coast and Townsville coast. The BOM is monitoring the situation closely and providing updates on the weather forecast.
Support for Farmers
The floods have had a significant impact on farmers, with many reporting losses and damage to their livelihoods. The Queensland Department of Primary Industries has confirmed that over 19,000 head of livestock are dead or missing, and 919 kilometers of fencing have been damaged. The government has announced funding to support farmers, including a feasibility study into flood mitigation measures for the Winton pump station. The AgForce president, Shane McCarthy, has said that any government financial assistance is paramount to ensure farmers and their livestock can recover as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The floods in north-west Queensland have caused widespread damage and disruption to communities. The rescue efforts are ongoing, and the government is providing support to those affected. The true cost of the flood damage is still unknown, but it is expected to be significant. The weather forecast is still a concern, with a moderate risk of a tropical low developing in the north-west Coral Sea. The government and communities are working together to support those affected and to recover from the floods.