15 February 2020
On Friday evening 14 February 2020, the Local Disaster Management Group was stood up to address a dam break on a private property located on Dalrymple Creek Road, Talgai.
As the stability of the dam was under question, residents in the surrounding area were sent an Emergency Alert via text message advising to evacuate.
Southern Downs Regional Council, consulting engineers, Queensland Fire and Emergency Service, and Queensland Police Service attended the site to assess the damage to the wall, evacuate residents who were identified to be at risk, and to close roads potentially affected by excessive water.
Engineers on site have identified that the dam wall is still at risk of failure. As such, evacuees have been advised to remain where they are at this stage. Evacuees who have not received contact from Southern Downs Regional Council are asked to phone 1300 697 372 for further information.
Southern Downs Regional Council disaster management staff will remain on duty overnight.
Roads closures remain in place. For further information on local road closures please visit www.sdrc.qld.gov.au
A further update will be issued at 9:00am on Sunday 16 February 2020.
The landowners of the property where the dam is located have been proactive in involving emergency services and Southern Downs Regional Council. Additionally, residents in surrounding properties are commended by all emergency services involved for their proactive and positive attitudes to this unforeseen event.