Cassowary Coast Community Rallies as Flood Recovery Efforts Intensify

Cassowary Coast Regional Council is continuing to support residents affected by severe flooding caused by the North and Far North Tropical Low, with a focus on Cardwell and surrounding areas, including Ellerbeck, Damper Creek, Euramo, Mission Beach and communities further west.

It is estimated that approximately 70 homes in Cardwell were inundated between Sunday night and early Monday morning, after the region recorded more than 1.1 metres of rainfall between Saturday and Tuesday.

Mayor Teresa Millwood said “Council is working closely with emergency services and government agencies to ensure impacted residents receive the support they need.”

“The scale of this event has been devastating for many in our community, and our hearts go out to those who have lost homes, vehicles, and livelihoods. Power is being progressively restored to Cardwell Residents where it is safe to do so with arrangements for resupply to local retail food stores throughout the region.

I want to assure everyone that Council is here to help, and we are working alongside our state and federal colleagues to provide immediate and long-term recovery support," Mayor Millwood said.

"To those struggling right now, please know you are not alone. We encourage residents in need to reach out for assistance. Recovery takes time, but together, as a community, we will get through this."

After flooding and power lost, I want to warn locals to use protective equipment such as gloves and enclosed footwear and be vigilant of waterborne diseases and infections,” Mayor Millwood said.

On Tuesday, Cassowary Coast Regional Council established a Community Recovery Hub at the Cardwell Community Hall, where staff assisted more than 200 locals with personal hardship claims. The Community Recovery Hub will continue to support the Cardwell community till Tuesday 11 February 2025 with State Government community recovery personal on the ground to continue to assist community with grants, relief and wellbeing support.

The Australian and Queensland Governments have extended Emergency Hardship Assistance Grants to eligible residents in the Cassowary Coast and Burdekin Local Government Areas. The Emergency Hardship Assistance grant is $180 per person, up to $900 for a family of five or more to help with immediate essentials such as food, clothing, and medicine. Other financial assistance is available with conditions and eligibility apply.

Residents can check their eligibility and apply via the Queensland Government’s Disaster Recovery website or by calling 1800 173 349.

In addition to recovery assistance, Council has commenced assessments of the region’s road network and infrastructure damage.

"Our teams are already on the ground evaluating road conditions where it is safe to do so," Deputy Mayor Nick Pervan said.

“Significant damage has already been identified to the road network and public assets such as bridges, streets, parks but the total damage is unknown at this stage as the most affected areas are still experiencing heavy rainfall and flooded roads.

A key area of concern and priority is Foxtail Avenue, Cardwell, where One Mile Creek has severely eroded the road, cutting off access to residences. Restoration efforts are complex due to exposed essential services, including water, wastewater, and power infrastructure.

Additionally, significant resources have been deployed to restore access to the power station on Tully Gorge Road.

Over the next few months, Council will complete a full damage assessment but works will commence immediately to restore safe access across the Cassowary Coast,” Deputy Mayor Pervan said.

Council has also established a Temporary Waste Transfer Station at the Pump Track carpark on Brasenose Street for Cardwell residents impacted by flooding to safely dispose of damaged household items and disaster-related debris to ensure homes are safe, habitable, and accessible.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council has also partnered with GIVIT to ensure donations go directly to those in need. If you can donate essential items, services, or funds, your generosity will make a real difference. Donate now by visiting www.givit.org.au

Council urges residents to continue following official updates and to report any significant damage or safety concerns via the Council’s website for further information.

For further information contact Council at 1300 763 903 or email enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.