Ergon Energy crews have been working hard across north Queensland in sweltering conditions to restore power services following Tropical Cyclone Kirrily.
In Townsville around 1,600 residents are still without power however that’s down from the 60,000 homes which lost power on Friday.
Community Recovery Hubs have popped up across the region for Townsville and Burdekin Shire residents who need support or help accessing Emergency Hardship Assistance Grant.
They have been set up in Ayr, Bluewater and Townsville to offer locals face-to-face advice.
People in the local government areas of Townsville and Burdekin are eligible for the Emergency Hardship Assistance Grant which provides 180 dollars per person and up to 900 dollars for a family of five or more to support immediate essential needs.
The Townsville Local Disaster Management Group (TLDMG) has moved from a ‘stand up’ to a ‘lean forward’ focus after the damage caused by Tropical Cyclone Kirrily.
Efforts will now move to recovering from the impacts of the weather system.
TLDMG Chair Jenny Hill says she is thankful to everyone involved in the response to ex-TC Kirrily.
“It’s a credit to our emergency services, service providers, Council team members and volunteers that we haven’t seen more damage in the community from ex-TC Kirrily.
“I want to thank the community for their help and preparation in the lead up to the event.
“Weather events like cyclones are part of living in northern Australia and it is something our community takes very seriously.
“In the move to lean forward we will now focus more on the recovery efforts following ex-TC Kirrily.
“That includes ensuring our community services are back up and running and ensuring people can safely access their homes.
“I urge the community to have patience as we get through the high workload.
“We will continue to the keep the community updated through Townsville City Council’s social media, website, customer service and the Emergency Management and Disaster Dashboard.”
Community Recovery Pop-up Hub
Burdekin Community Association, 130 Queen Street, Ayr
Monday to Friday: 9.00am to 4.00pm
Bluewater Community Centre, 14 Forestry Road, Bluewater
Monday to Friday: 9.00am to 4.00pm
North Townsville Community Hub (NOTCH), 52 Palm Drive, Deeragun
Monday to Friday: 9.00am to 3:30pm
Community Gro – Garbutt Community Centre, 4 Hugh Street, Garbutt
Monday to Friday: 9.00am to 4.00pm
Community Gro – Upper Ross, 43 Allambie Lane, Rasmussen
Monday to Friday: 9.00am to 4.00pm