Western Downs residents urged to prepare for more ‘wild weather’ ahead of storm season

People are being advised to prepare their homes and families for continuous intense weather after Dalby and Bell were struck with recent fires and storm season looms, with council announcing a new disaster warning system in place. See all the details.

People throughout the region are being urged to prepare their homes for wild weather as we reach storm season.

Western Downs Regional Council has launched the ‘Ready Together’ campaign which encourages residents to understand the risks that come with the predicted weather, prepare their households for emergency plans and ensure they have what they need should disaster strike.

Mayor Paul McVeigh said it was critical that people adhered to the advice and get prepared.

“The Western Downs has experienced its fair share of wild weather over recent years, which is why it’s crucial residents play their part in ensuring their homes and families are as prepared as possible,” he said.

The advice comes just days after two massive fires broke out in Dalby and Bell endangering multiple homes.

“To support residents to get ready, council is partnering with local emergency services and support agencies to host a dedicated ‘Ready Together’ community day at Chinchilla’s Bulldog Park on Saturday October 21,” Mr McVeigh said.

“This special event will be jam-packed with activities and entertainment with special appearances from Australian comedian and speaker Sean Choolburra and NRL legend Shane Webcke, live music, demonstrations, information stalls and food and drink vendors.”

Mr McVeigh said the event would be an opportunity for people to first hand advice from emergency services and supporting agencies.

A large grass fire is threatening homes on the eastern side of Dalby, near the intersection of the Warrego Highway and Dalby-Cecil Plains Road.

“Along with the rest of the country, council has implemented the Australian Warning System into its disaster planning, which will give residents consistent warning messaging during times of disaster,” Mr McVeigh said.

Rural Fire Service regional manager Superintendent Wayne Waltisbuhl said it wasn’t too late for residents to ensure their homes were protected from bushfires.

“Due to the current dryness of vegetation, there have been several fires started by machinery such as movers and slashers,” he said.

“It’s important to have a spotter observing the activity and equipment on hand that can extinguish any potential fires when they are small.”

He adds that clearing vegetation around out buildings, cattle yards and sheds will make things easier to protect.

Council also announced they are investing $940,000 into new and improved flood gauge technology this financial year which is part of a $5m program of disaster preparedness and recovery projects that they are delivering.

The upgraded flood gauges will give council greater access to timely information about flood levels across the region.

Originally published as Western Downs residents urged to prepare for more ‘wild weather’ ahead of storm season