Redland City Councillors today supported a request by Mayor Karen Williams to extend support for those impacted by the recent flooding experienced across South East Queensland.

Cr Williams said her Mayoral Minute tabled at today’s Council meeting would use Council’s existing COVID-19 support package as the basis to help those experiencing hardship following the recent rainfall.

“Over the 10 days between 23 February and 7 March, the Redlands received a record rainfall, with almost 850 mm received at the Redlands weather station,” Cr Williams said.

“While we didn’t experience the widespread flooding seen by some of our neighbours, a small number of residents, sporting clubs and community groups were significantly impacted, including three families who had to be temporarily relocated from their homes.

“Today’s decision means Council officers can now apply our existing COVID-19 support mechanisms to help those significantly impacted by the floods so they can get back on their feet sooner.

“When we adopted this $2 million support package two years ago it was focussed on supporting our community through a global pandemic and, while the challenge has changed, the intent is still the same, we want to ensure our city bounces back from the recent flooding as quickly as possible.

“Council has been working with State Government officers to support those impacted and, following today’s decision, our officers will continue to work with their State counterparts to identify those that need extra help.”

Cr Williams said today’s Mayoral Minute also outlined the support already provided throughout the flooding.

“We know our SES crews are some of the best in the State and the recent weather events again showed why they are so highly regarded,” Cr Williams said.

“Additionally Council supported the community through more than 18,500 sandbags.

“Following the event our officers have been out on the ground supporting local community groups and sports clubs and we have waived waste disposal fees for these groups, as well as for commercial providers that are assisting residents and clubs with the clean-up.”

Cr Williams said Council’s support for the flood recovery extended beyond the city.

“We know some of our neighbours have experienced devastating impacts that will take months to recover from and as always the Redlands Coast community is here to help,’ Cr Williams said.

“We have had officers deployed to Gympie and other cities to assist, including a full crew of 25 Council officers and 31 contractors who are assisting with the Brisbane recovery efforts.

“I have also spoken with local businesses with trucks and machinery about how they can help and in response they have rallied by supporting Councils across the region.”