Preparing for Severe Weather Events and Natural Disasters
The North Burnett Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) held their quarterly meeting on 16 September 2022. Over the last quarter there have been several new faces around the LDMG table, so a meet and greet BBQ was held, followed by a brief induction training and agency sharing.
One topic raised was the expected above average rainfall, as a result of La Nina. Although it is difficult to predict future weather events, since we have a saturated catchment from previous rain, we are expecting the catchment to respond much quicker than it normally does. Normally the LDMG is not concerned about summer rain until we see rainfall over 200mm, however, the saturated catchment means lower levels of rainfall will see the river react more quickly.
As a result of the unpredictability of future rain events, we encourage the community to prepare now, particularly those who live in an area subject to flooding or isolation. It is important to prepare an evacuation kit. Have a minimum of three days supply of food, water, medication and clothing, ready in a kit, in case you need to evacuate. If you live in an area that becomes isolated, think about what you would need for the duration of your isolation. Prepare an evacuation plan, outlining where you will go, and ensure that everyone in your house knows the plan.
Visit the Get Ready QLD website at www.getready.qld.gov.au. This site contains a lot of helpful information about how to prepare for disaster events. In the event of a natural disaster, evacuation centres may be opened if required, however, they are not the most ideal place to stay. People will be much more comfortable with family and friends, so it is important to consider accommodation options, before an event occurs.
The LDMG encourages community members and visitors to contact the Council on 1300 696 272 during disasters, to ensure they understand the full extent of the situation, and how we can help and assist, or call the SES on 13 25 00. For all emergency and life threatening matters immediately call 000.
New Waste Fees and Charges from 1 October 2022
It is no longer financially sustainable for Council to absorb landfill management costs. Maintaining Waste Management Facilities and landfill sites involves many inputs, including compacting and covering waste, managing stockpiles and resource areas, as well as maintaining staffing facilities.
The new fees are one of several steps that Council is currently undertaking, to address significant financial sustainability issues, and work toward the viability of our Council. The Landfill Management Levy, raised on all rates assessments, does not cover the cost of maintaining waste facilities. The levy is used to offset the cost of landfill management, compliance and future closure provisions.
The new fees and charges will ensure that this management can continue into the future. Fees and charges can be located on our website www.northburnett.qld.gov.au/waste-disposal-and-recycling.
Mungungo vs the World Community Fundraising Event
On Saturday 17 September 2022 the world turned up at the MCG (Mungungo Cricket Ground) to compete against Mungungo, for the renowned annual Cricket Shield, hosted by the Mungungo Sports & Recreation Club Inc.
Numerous teams played against each other, and in the final match between Mungungo and the World (aka Cann-In-Yah), Mungungo won the trophy for the first time in a few years. There was a rolling raffle throughout the day and a high stakes auction at the end of the day. All funds raised will go towards Ridgehaven, LifeFlight and Local Junior Community groups.
It was great to see support from sponsors, donors, business and community participants and spectators.
Roadworks Update
During the week commencing 19 September 2022, Civil Works will be carrying out the following work (weather permitting):
- Maintenance Grading Zone 1 – Tecoma Road
- Maintenance Grading Zone 2 – continuing Glencoe Road
- Maintenance Grading Zone 3 – Weir Road
- Maintenance Grading Zone 4 – Bania Road – Emergent Works
- Maintenance Grading Zone 5 – Ross Crossing – Emergent Works
- Maintenance Grading Zone 6 – continuing Mungy Road
- Maintenance Grading Zone 7 – continuing Ban Ban Road moving onto Grays Road and Barlynnes Road
- Maintenance Grading Zone 8 – McCords Creek Road
- Construction Crew North – continuing Youlambie Road, MF Grade moving onto Abercorn Intersection – Construction
- Construction Crew South – continuing to Berries Road – TIDS Re-sheet
- Resource Crews South – continuing Monogorilby Road – Resheet (Yesberg Earthmoving)
You can check on the status of all works on our website at www.northburnett.qld.gov.au/future-road-works.
Parks and Open Spaces Update
Along with general parks and open spaces maintenance, such as mowing and gardening, the teams will be focusing on the following projects:
- The new shelter at Jaycee Park, Gayndah will be completed with a new concrete slab and table chair setting.
- The irrigation project at the Gayndah Cemetery is underway, with the water connection now in place. Irrigation installation commences next week.
As always, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me directly on 0458 696 272 or cr.les.hotz@northburnett.qld.gov.au or your divisional councillor if you would like to address any concerns. Our contact details can be found on Council’s website www.northburnett.qld.gov.au/meet-your-councillors
Media Contact
1300 696 272 | media@northburnett.qld.gov.au