QCWA raising funds

Following record rains in the north-west of the state, the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) has started a disaster fund to help out those affected.

Remote communities in the Gulf of Carpentaria have been among the worst affected.

The Nicholson, Gregory and Norman rivers are continuing to rise in coming weeks, with a Monsoon Low that is bringing heavy rain.

Speaking last Friday, QCWA Gregory Branch President Kylie Camp said the situation is extreme.

“We have had 55 people evacuated to Burketown,” Mrs Camp said.

“We are in dire need of assistance, with water rising with Riverlea station breaking 1971 level of 10.8 metres this morning 19.97 metres and rising.

“Century Mine received in 48 hours half a metre of rain, this is an unprecedented event.”

The situation deteriorated over the weekend, with all residents advised to leave the town immediately as power was cut off and sewerage to the town had been compromised.

QCWA State President Mrs Sheila Campbell has asked Queenslanders to dig deep and support these remote communities by giving a cash donation to the QCWA Disaster fund.

Mrs Campbell said by donating to the QCWA Disaster Fund, the QCWA can direct funds directly to the local community, supporting local businesses with vouchers.

“All money donated to the QCWA goes directly to where it’s needed,” Mrs Campbell said.

“No money is used for administration purposes.”

Donations to the QCWA State Disaster Fund can be made to: BSB 064 000 Acct. No: 1460 4131.

“Council is continuing its strategic work balancing the conflict between preserving green areas and suitable sites for future urban growth.

“Council has heard community concerns around the preservation of natural areas and will continue to consult with the community as we prepare our new planning scheme.

“I also see the committee as a vehicle for promoting a better understanding of these issues to the wider community.”

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Applications close at 5pm on 31 March 2023.

The current term of the Environment Advisory Committee will end in March 2024.

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