Bundaberg Regional Council has thanked the flood-hit local community for its support and patience, as the Burnett Traffic and Tallon Bridges reopen to allow residents to return to Bundaberg North with care.
Council is also reminding residents that volunteers are not yet required as emergency crews continue critical flood response work.
Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) Chair and Mayor, Helen Blackburn said the generosity of residents was deeply appreciated and would be vital when the recovery process begins.
“We know our community wants to help and we are incredibly grateful for the offers already coming in,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“Right now, our teams are still focused on protecting lives, assessing damage and addressing immediate hazards.”
Mayor Blackburn said travelling into impacted areas could put both the public and responders at risk.
“We’re asking everyone to stay away from flood affected locations,” she said.
“Unnecessary movement can hinder emergency operations and create dangerous situations for residents and first responders.”
She said Council will announce when it becomes safe and appropriate for volunteers to participate in recovery efforts.
“There will absolutely be opportunities for our community to get involved,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“When we reach that stage, clear information will be provided on how people can help safely and effectively.”
Council is continuing to work closely with emergency services and support agencies, including the Australian Red Cross, to assist affected residents as recovery planning progresses.
“We are asking motorists to drive carefully and take care around people undertaking restoration and cleaning works.”
“There will be heavy machinery and workers in the Bundaberg North area performing essential recovery and cleaning activities.”
Meanwhile, authorities have issued an emergency warning for Chinchilla, with major flooding expected in Charleys Creek today.
Residents in the low lying areas of the Western Downs town, which is situated around 300 kilometres west of Brisbane, have been told to secure their belongings and evacuate to higher ground.
Charleys Creek reached 6.4 metres on Wednesday and is currently sitting at 6.1 metres, but is expected to peak at 6.8 metres today.
