QFES and SES prepare for cyclone season with Pioneer River training

Mackay residents have been urged to prepare for a ‘very wet summer’ with multiple cyclones expected in the wet season.

The heroes of Mackay are preparing for a busy wet season, with cyclones and flooding expected to hit this summer.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and the State Emergency Services took to the Pioneer River to practice their flood and emergency preparedness ahead of what is likely to be a “very wet summer”.

SES local controller Alex McPhee said a lack of education within the Mackay community was the major factor for the majority of rescues.

“I don’t believe it’s negligence on a lot of people’s cases, but I do think it’s education,” he said.

State Emergency Services local controller Alex McPhee at the Pioneer River for training ahead of the wet season in Mackay. Picture: Matthew Forrest

“We’ve got a lot of people moving into Mackay now, and we need to educate them about the risks so they know where they need to be with their own safety.

“Unfortunately we still saw some people driving through the flood waters when we had a lot of rain coming through the other week.”

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson was at the river for a boat ride with the SES and QFES teams. Picture: Contributed

The region’s residents should be prepared for cyclone season, with the SES projecting at least two to come through in January and February.

Mr McPhee said the rescue services were ready for the wet season ahead.

State Emergency Services local controller Alex McPhee at the Pioneer River for training ahead of the wet season in Mackay. Picture: Matthew Forrest

“We’ll see a lot of rain come through Mackay and the surrounding regions, so there’ll be some jobs coming for us so we’re ready to go with all the right equipment,” he said.

“Unfortunately, we’ve had children playing in the storm drains, and they have a lot of current and force going through there.

“They can easily be taken away by the current and that’s when you see the fire and rescue team going to help people out of flood waters.”