Calls for volunteer army to be deployed in Lockyer Valley

Many of the people hit hardest by the Lockyer Valley flood are not equipped for the clean-up. They are seniors, people with disability or chronic illness and they need your help.

Fran and Ken Arndt need help cleaning up their place after the 2022 Grantham Flood.

After barely surviving the 2011 flood Ken and Fran Arndt weren’t taking any chances when the flood warning was issued for Grantham on Friday.

They fled to high ground long before the town’s flood siren sounded, whereas in 2011 the couple were washed away and spent three hours clinging to a tree while they waited to be rescued.

This time around they got out early and returned to their home on Monday to find it a muddy mess.

“It brings back a lot of memories, a lot of painful memories,” Mrs Arndt said.

In 2011 the water flooded into the highset home damaged it to the point where it had to be demolished.

The effects of the 2022 Grantham Flood will be felt for months.

The couple have since rebuilt and while water didn’t enter their home on Friday it has made a mess of their new place.

At 83 and 76 years of age, the couple need help putting their lives back in order.

“We have no way of cleaning up,” Mrs Arndt said

“We have no ute or machinery and we are too old to be carrying anything heavy.”

The couple are not alone with thousands of homes across Queensland affected by widespread floods.

The Grantham floodwater moved with enough force to move these sandstone slabs.

In response Lifeline Darling Downs announced that its Community Recovery service is likely to be activated in the coming days and weeks to assist those most affected.

“We work alongside government agencies and other organisations to provide emotional support and assistance for those affected by natural disasters,” CEO Grant Simpson said.

“Our staff and volunteers will be deployed to assist flood affected communities both locally and around Southeast Queensland to provide ‘psychological first aid’ and support.”

The not-for-profit organisation is not planning an appeal for donations however, they will continue to assist local residents through their Emergency Relief program.

Their retail stores throughout Toowoomba and the Darling Downs are all operational this week and are well stocked with goods for purchase.

All profits raised through the retail network goes towards their suicide prevention and crisis support services.

For more information on services or to support Lifeline Darling Downs phone [phone] or visit www.lifelinedarlingdowns.org.au