State, federal govts to foot bill for western flood damage
Disaster assistance has been extended to six rural councils, which have borne the brunt of extreme flooding in recent weeks.
Community News
Don't miss out on the headlines from Community News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
DISASTER assistance will be extended to western residents affected by the February floods, in a bid to rebuild damaged roads, repair public assets, and ensure locals can return to their homes.
Minister for Emergency Management David Littleproud confirmed the Murweh, Paroo, Quilpie, and Blackall-Tambo shire councils will be among six local government areas in southwest Queensland to receive disaster payments in the wake of widespread major flooding.
"While the rain has been welcomed, widespread flooding in southwest Queensland isolated communities, displaced residents, closed roads and damaged essential public assets," he said.
"The joint Commonwealth and State funded DRFA will pick up the bill for road and infrastructure repairs and clean-up costs, so these communities can get back on their feet sooner."
Along with the four western shires, the Balonne Shire Council and Maranoa Regional Council will also be eligible for financial assistance to help with flood clean-up.
Only a few weeks ago, the regions were battling persistent drought conditions.
While Minister for Emergency Services Craig Crawford acknowledged the rain was welcome in the drought-stricken regions, the flood damage was still a burden for councils and residents.
"This funding will assist with restoring damaged public infrastructure to alleviate the financial strain on these impacted communities," he said.
"As our (national) disaster season continues to throw everything at us from bushfires to floods, it's important to know that all impacted areas are being supported with recovery assistance.
"As the impacts of this latest rainfall and flooding event continue to unfold, the Commonwealth and Queensland Governments will work together to ensure all impacted communities receive the recovery support they need."
Information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government's Disaster Assist website at disasterassist.gov.au and the Queensland Government's Disaster Management website at disaster.qld.gov.au
$15m blow for Outback business as festival takes year off
The cancellation of the 2025 Big Red Bash is expected to significantly impact the economy of outback Queensland, as locals brace for the loss of millions in tourism revenue.
Revealed: Southwest Qld’s worst behaved state school students
After analysing dozens of southwest Queensland state schools and their annual student behaviour data, we can reveal who has the worst behaved. SEARCH THE FULL LIST.
Growing up in Hotel Corones: Author’s debut novel trip down memory lane in regional town
The daughter of publicans of Charleville’s iconic Hotel Corones, Sarah Todman has met some fascinating people. Now, she’s used her experience to shape her debut novel.
Hundreds of motorbikes descend on outback town for a good cause
Hundreds of motorbike riders stopped in Charleville as they make their way on the Long Ride, to raise awareness and funds for prostate cancer in Australia. SEE THE PHOTOS.
From shearing to the silver screen: Laurie Bateman’s inspiring story
A police officer from humble beginnings as a sheep shearer in southwest Queensland hopes to be a relatable role model on a docuseries.
VOTING OPEN: Have your say on South West Queensland’s best coffee
Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or have a full blown caffeine addiction, nothing beats the perfect cup of coffee. Vote for your favourite cafe in our poll now.