NT Emergency Service deployed 6 volunteers and 1 staff member to Queensland early Sunday, to assist with the current flood emergency unfolding in the far north.
The region has been impacted by extreme rainfall, resulting in extensive flooding that is expected to continue for several days. Relief and recovery efforts will continue for weeks due to the extent of the flooding and damage across the region.
The Queensland Government formally requested assistance from all jurisdictions throughout Australia on Tuesday afternoon, promoting a response from NTES who have arranged for a contingent to fly to Townsville commencing on Sunday.
The team, consisting of volunteers and staff from Darwin, Palmerston, Nhulunbuy and Katherine will assist with relief and recovery tasks such as debris removal, community engagement, flood boat resupply and evacuation centre operations.
NT Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner, Andrew Warton, said the NT volunteers were highly trained and up for the task of helping their colleagues at QLD State Emergency Service.
"Our dedicated volunteers and staff members are more than happy to step up and assist during this critical time," he said.
"Given the scale of the flooding emergency, the QLD SES has requested additional capacity to aid in the response efforts. Our first team of six will assist with a range of tasks that they're well prepared and experienced in delivering"
"While flooding is not uncommon in North Queensland, the vastness of this event and impact it has had on so many communities in the region is extremely challenging and has exhausted QLD SES resources - out thoughts are with all of those impacted and the selfless volunteers on the front line."
This deployment highlights the dedication and core values of NTES. Many of these individuals put their personal lives on hold to assist communities, as well as others in need during times of crisis.
The recent formation of the NT Fire and Emergency Services, which combines the NT Fire and Rescue Service, NT Emergency Service, and Bushfires NT into one agency, enhances our ability to respond to emergencies while prioritising community resilience.
Media contact:
Rickie Abraham
89239803
