Brace for Impact: Tropical Cyclone Koji Heading for North Queensland’s Shores

Authorities have issued warnings for a significant portion of the northeast coast of Queensland, stretching from Townsville to Mackay. This includes areas such as Bowen, Proserpine, and the Whitsunday Islands.

Despite the potential threat, officials are assuring residents that emergency services are well-prepared. According to Premier David Crisafulli, swift-water rescue teams, police, State Emergency Service (SES) officers, and paramedics are on standby, ready to collaborate with local communities if the situation worsens.

Premier Crisafulli emphasized the state’s readiness to handle the cyclone threat, highlighting the coordination of resources and personnel to ensure public safety.

“The locals know their region and the challenges they face,” Crisafulli remarked, underscoring the importance of community awareness and preparedness in handling natural disasters.

In the northwest, major flooding that has already heavily affected Gulf Country communities — where livestock losses are projected to be significant — continues on the Flinders River.

Major flood warnings have also been issued for the Herbert, Haughton and Tully rivers.

Support for primary producers

The federal and Queensland governments have activated funding support for primary producers in flooded areas.

Under the arrangements, farmers can claim eligible veterinary fees associated with the health and welfare of production livestock, as well as costs associated with carcass disposal on their property.

Freight subsidies up to $5,000 per property will be made available to move essential materials including fodder, building and fencing materials, machinery and animals for restocking.

Crisafulli said a preliminary survey of property owners indicated some 40,000 stock had already been lost, a number he expected would increase significantly.

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