Photo 8-6-2022, 10 02 20 Flood Recovery Hub

Flood Disaster Recovery: Important Information for Southern Downs Residents

14 May 2022 |

Updated 17 June 2022

Recovering from a disaster is a gradual process. Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and physical wellbeing. If assistance is available, knowing how to access it makes the process faster and less stressful. We partner with a range of agencies and organisations to help get your home, community, and life back to normal.

For people experiencing difficulties following the recent floods, the following supports are still available:

Community Recovery

Although the Community Recovery Hub has now closed, residents can still access a range of grant and support information at Council's Customer Service Centres in Warwick and Stanthorpe or ask to speak with the local disaster recovery officer. To access assistance:

BlazeAid Assistance > BlazeAid Volunteers are currently active in the Southern Downs offering assistance to with families and individuals in rural Australia after natural disasters such as fires and floods. Working alongside the rural families, volunteers help to rebuild fences and other structures that have been damaged or destroyed. 

Base camp address: Warwick Showgrounds, 18 Kingsford St, Warwick QLD 4370

Co-ordinator: Brad Young 0488 405 481

Donations and General Enquiries: Debbie Buttler 0418990267

Email: warwick.blazeaid@gmail.com

Stay safe

  • It is important to not re-enter your home until it is safe to do so.
  • Don’t eat food that has been compromised by the elements or power outages and don’t use gas or electrical appliances until they are safety checked.
  • Floodwater is often contaminated by sewage from overflowing sewerage or septic systems, and by agricultural or industrial wastes and chemicals. There is a higher risk of infection by coming into contact with polluted water or soil. The risks include wound infections, dermatitis, conjunctivitis or ear, nose and throat infections.
  • While cleaning up homes, businesses or public spaces, wear protective footwear and gloves to avoid being cut or scraped, especially if the area has been affected by floodwater.
  • Treat any cuts with antiseptic and cover with a protective dressing immediately. Wash hands regularly and ask your GP if your tetanus shot is up to date.

General health & safety

Please refer to the Fact Sheets at the bottom of this page for general health and safety information and resources.

Helpful Contacts

Helpful Links

QLD Govt - Disasters & Emergencies

  • Financial eligibility for grants
  • Housing and accommodation
  • Physical health and wellbeing
  • Mental health and wellbeing
  • Rebuilding & Cleaning Up

Disasters and emergencies | Community support | Queensland Government (www.qld.gov.au)

QLD Rural & Industry Development Authority

  • Grants and rebates
  • Loans

qrida.qld.gov.au

Public Health Fact Sheets (Links in the table below)

Southern Downs Regional Council reminds the community that during a flood event:

  • Always follow http://disaster.sdrc.qld.gov.au/ for updated weather alerts and road closures.
  • Never drive, walk or ride through flood waters.
  • Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.
  • If it is flooded, forget it!
  • The best decision you can make is to back it up.
  • Download the My SDRC App at https://bit.ly/MySDRCAppInfo to report damaged road.

Last edited date 21 Jun 2022