Cessnock City Council showed its appreciation for everyone who contributed to the July 2022 flood event response efforts via a Mayoral Minute at last Wednesday's Council meeting.
The recent flood event, being the second natural disaster in just four months, has had a devastating impact on both residents of the Cessnock LGA, and the local road network.
Council made a point of acknowledging the service and commitment of Council staff, NSW SES Units, VRA Rescue NSW, NSW Police, Cessnock Leagues Club and all emergency services for the work they did, and continue to do, to keep our community safe.
Cessnock City Council Mayor Jay Suvaal said these organisations go above and beyond to help and support our community when they need it most, and deserve recognition for their efforts.
"I have witnessed the tireless work of these people across our local government area for the past few weeks, and many of them are volunteers who have given up time with their loved ones to help others," Mayor Suvaal said.
"Council plans to work with the Cessnock Leagues Club to organise a community appreciation event for all service providers and emergency workers who assisted during the recent flood event."
Council also endorsed the proposed program of works to be funded via the $1 million Council Support Payments - NSW Severe Weather and Flood Grant – Category D, offered by the Office of Local Government following the March 2022 flood event.
The projects include:
- $70,000 to relocate the Wollombi Valley Pony Clubhouse to higher ground
- $500,000 for causeway upgrades on Yango Creek Road and Upper Yango Creek Road
- $250,000 to raise Great North Road at Rhino Corner, Glenloona Road, Laguna
- $180,000 to investigate and install flood boom gates at Williams Bridge Paynes Crossing, Old North Road, Station Street Greta, Millfield and other locations
Mayor Suvaal said, "This program of works was guided by the community following the flooding event in March, and will provide tangible benefits to the communities who are regularly impacted by flooding."
