Dallarnil flooding: North Burnett Regional Council lash Deputy Premier Steven Miles over colossal funding cut prior to flooding crisis

The North Burnett Council said it was preparing for flooding when the government slashed funding by $2 million, as the Deputy Premier pledges support during a Dallarnil visit.

North Burnett Regional Council lashed out at Deputy Premier Steven Miles, calling his visit to flood-ravaged Dallarnil a “photo opportunity” after millions in federal funding to the region was slashed in December.

Acting North Burnett Mayor Robbie Radel said as the council was preparing for a potential flooding event following heavy rain in early December, the State Government dropped a bombshell and reduced federal assistance grants by $700,000 a year over the next three years.

The cut equates to a $2 million reduction.

“This is vital funding that council relies on to deliver essential services to the community, including our disaster management preparedness,” Cr Radel said.

“As a region we are prone to natural disasters. This event at Dallarnil is the 7th declared event in the last 10 years.

“This significant funding cut is just another kick in the guts for our small region while we are already down.”

Cr Radel said the council had worked closely with the State Government and Queensland Treasury Corporation over the past three years to move the council into a more sustainable position, with financial woes leaving residents with reduced access to basic services.

Deputy Premier Steven Miles said the states flood response could have been “better and faster”. Photo: Steven Miles office.

“We demand that the State Government provide an explanation on how we are expected to make up this funding shortfall. What do they want us to do?” he asked.

“Following years of drought and now with the impacts of flood, a funding gap should not be expected to be filled by our ratepayers. This reduction in funding is equivalent to a 17% general rate rise.

“The Deputy Premier has a lot to answer for and our community deserves an answer and not just a photo opportunity.”

When questioned on why some North Burnett locals were left in the lurch for six days during the floods while the response in Maryborough was rapid, Mr Miles said the response in the region could have been “better and faster”.

“That’s why I’m here, to address those concerns. I don't think there’s much use in hashing over that, other than to make sure we don’t make those mistakes again,” he said.

“From here, let’s make sure we address them and make sure that the community has what they need.”

Deputy Premier Steven Miles said the states flood response could have been “better and faster”. Photo: Steven Miles office.

Mr Miles and State Recovery Coordinator Paul de Jersey have been touring local government areas impacted by the floods, triggered by tropical ex-cyclone Seth, including Maryborough, Hervey Bay and Gympie.

The visit comes as financial assistance is rolled out to the six local government areas impacted by the floods, with grants of up to $50,000 available for small businesses and primary producers.

Chief Executive of the Queensland Reconstruction Authority Brendan Moon said the floods struck an “extraordinarily large area” and it will likely take years for these communities to fully recover.

“Our message to you is that you will we support you in your recovery,” Mr Moon said.

A teenage girl remains missing following the deadly deluge that dumped more than half a metre of water on Queensland communities.

The tragic event also took the lives of a 22-year-old Adam Ross, when his car was swept into floodwaters at Kanigan, and 52-year-old Steve Bottcher, whose body was found after he disappeared in floodwaters at Tiaro.