There’s no denying storm season is now upon us, and disaster management planning for the hinterland communities is top of mind for Sunshine Coast Council.
Division 5 Councillor Jenny McKay said work on establishing a Conondale-Kenilworth Local Disaster Management Sub-Group was progressing well.
“A number of key locals will bring their knowledge, expertise and understanding of the area’s social, environmental, economic and public infrastructure issues to the next group meeting planned for 7 February,” she said.
“The local disaster group will play a vital role in managing and coordinating the response to major incidents and disasters in the local Kenilworth to Conondale areas.”
The first meeting of the group in December identified three major risks for the local community: poor telecommunications, flooding and bushfire.
Cr McKay said the February meeting will be an opportunity for the group to discuss each of these issues in more detail.
“They will hear from council’s Broadband and Digital Economy Manager about what is currently planned for communication network upgrades in the area,” she said.
“We will also look at the progress of the current Mary River Flood Study which is anticipated to be released publically after Easter.
“Council’s bushfire mapping for the area will also be viewed and discussed at the meeting.”
Division 10 Councillor Paul Tatton reinforced council’s safety message for community members.
“While we are doing this disaster management planning at a community level, it is important for individuals to be aware of the risks around their homes and have an emergency plan for themselves and their families,” Cr Tatton said.
During disaster periods, check council’s website www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au and our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SunshineCoastCouncil for regular information updates including road closures. You can also follow us on Twitter at @CouncilSCC for updates.
Residents can also listen to local radio for regular updates about conditions and log on to the Bureau of Meteorology website for weather warnings.