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Council

28 February, 2022

Somerset now 'in recovery': Mayor

The Somerset region has passed the worst of the flood emergency, and is now entering the 'recovery' phase, says Graeme Lehmann, Mayor of Somerset Regional Council.


Damaged infrastructure will be key priority for Somerset Regional Council, as the region enters the recovery phase.
Damaged infrastructure will be key priority for Somerset Regional Council, as the region enters the recovery phase.

Somerset Regional Council and  emergency services personnel are working around the clock to begin the clean-up operation and support residents still isolated by floodwaters, Cr Lehmann said.

Describing the event as 'a challenging few days' for residents Cr Lehmann said the disaster was far from over.

“As always our immediate priority was on keeping residents safe and minimising damage to homes and businesses wherever possible,” Cr Lehmann said.

“Tragically, one of our Lowood SES volunteers, Merryl Dray, lost her life during a flood response at Coolana over the weekend.

“Merryl was an experienced and skilled SES volunteer whose contribution to our community cannot be overstated. I am extremely saddened by her loss and send heartfelt thoughts to her family, friends and SES colleagues.”

Mayor Lehmann acknowledged the work of volunteers and emergency services during such difficult circumstances.

“I cannot express enough gratitude for the everyday people who give up their time to work in challenging conditions for the safety of their communities,” he said.

“As always the comradery and resilience shown by our residents too is second to none.

“My heart breaks that our community is going through another flood disaster.”

Wivenhoe Dam releases are continuing and are expected to continue for about a week.

While releases are ongoing, the following roads will be closed:

  • Geoff Fisher Bridge, Brisbane Valley Highway at Fernvale

  • Savages Crossing, Banks Creek Road at Fernvale

  • Twin Bridges at Wivenhoe Pocket

  • Burtons Bridge at Borallon, and

  • Pryde and England Creek Bridges, England Creek Road.

  • Areas to the east of the Brisbane River will remain isolated during this time.

Many other roads remain closed in Somerset, with damage to infrastructure yet to be fully assessed.

Mayor Lehmann also asked residents to exercise extreme caution when travelling on the region’s road network.

“While flood water is receding in some areas and roads become passable, please be alert, aware and drive to the conditions of the road,” Cr Lehmann said.

“Council crews are out and about however road assessments, repairs and removal of debris may take several days.

“Our crews are focussing on key transport links as an immediate priority.”

While Somerset was now among the councils slated for Federal disaster assistance, information regarding disaster recovery payments for flood affected individuals has yet to be released.

Residents impacted by the floods who require assistance, including those still Isolated or stranded, can contact council on 5424 4000 or email disaster@somerset.qld.gov.au



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