DAVID ADAMS reports…
Thousands of people across northern New South Wales and south-west Queensland continue to face the devastating effects of what are in many cases unprecedented floods.
“We know that the journey to recovery continues long after the rain has ceased and the waters have subsided.”– Salvation Army spokesman Major Bruce Harmer |
The Salvation Army, along with the Red Cross, is among those organisations working to help those affected by the floods.
It already has volunteers and officers working in affected communities including Moree, Roma and Mitchell and says it is ready to send people to other communities as they are required.
On Sunday, the Army launched the Australian Disaster Relief Appeal as a means to support communities in both States affected by the natural disaster.
While floodwaters are easing in many communities and the clean-up has begun, authorities have issued a severe thunderstorm warning for today with many of the communities already affected by the floods – including Roma, Charleville and Mitchell – expected to be hit with damaging winds, more rain and even hail.
In the Queensland town of St George, meanwhile, floodwaters are continuing to rise and are currently being held by a 14 metre high levee bank. The town’s 3,000 residents have been evacuated in what was the biggest exercise of its kind in the state’s history.
Salvation Army spokesman Major Bruce Harmer says the organisation’s experience in the aftermath of last year’s floods means it is well placed to help those affected by the disaster.
“We know that the journey to recovery continues long after the rain has ceased and the waters have subsided,” says
“We also know that while there will be government disaster assistance available, there are still many practical needs that people need help with, and communities will need access to counsellors and financial advisors to help people through this crisis.”
The Red Cross, meanwhile, has more than 100 staff working at evacuation centres in towns including Charleville, Roma, Mitchell and Moree. The organisation is also helping people to get in touch with family and friends through the National Registration and Inquiry System and is providing recovery teams to help people once the waters have subsided.
On Monday, Queensland Premier Anna Bligh announced the Premier’s Disaster Relief Appeal for the 2012 Regional Queensland Floods. The Australian Red Cross has agreed to distribute the funds on behalf of the Queensland Government but will not be accepting direct donations.
WHERE TO DONATE:
• The Salvation Army’s Australian Disaster Relief Appeal
www.salvationarmy.org.au or phone 13 SALVOS (13 72 58)
• Premier’s Disaster Relief Appeal for the 2012 Regional Queensland Floods
www.qld.gov.au/emergency/news/features/donate.html
