Disaster update for Charters Towers Region

The Charters Towers Local Disaster Management Group (CTLDMG) advises that roads north, east and south of Charters Towers remain closed due to ongoing adverse conditions.

Council crews are out continually monitoring the road network, with updates provided as information is received.  

CTLDMG Chair, Mayor Liz Schmidt said due to the current weather conditions and volume of water still in our catchments, they are unable to confirm when roads will reopen.

“The Region has received significant rainfall and, with further flood warning advice issued from the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) yesterday, it is anticipated the Macrossan Bridge at Sellheim will remain closed for another few days”, continued Mayor Schmidt.

Residents are urged to remain water vigilant, however Council has now moved to Level 4 Water restrictions, with the production of water currently able to support normal domestic usage, excluding watering.

While no watering is still in force, residents and the business community are asked to still be vigilant with water usage to ensure we can maintain a Level 4 restriction.

LDMG is working with the District Disaster Management Group (DDMG) to ensure supplies are available for the Charters Towers Region, with residents asked to be patient and mindful that this flood event is impacting multiple areas across North Queensland. 

Emergency Services, freight operators, business owners, and Local Government staff are working around the clock to ensure everyone is safe, has access to essential services, and is kept updated as quickly as possible.

The Charters Towers Local Disaster Management Group would like to thank everyone who is assisting with delivering essential supplies to our community, visitors, and truck drivers currently isolated by floodwaters.

“We are still urging the delay of all non-essential travel as now is not the time to be taking any unnecessary trips.  There are a number of flood cameras currently inactive due to connectivity issues or damage, as well as a number of mobile phone black spots in regional areas, and it may not be possible to call for help.  

“Please don’t risk getting stuck between creeks or crossings as assistance may not be available if emergency services are unable to reach you”, Mayor Schmidt added.

If you are suffering hardship or require emotional support as a result of the North and Far North Tropical Low, you may be eligible for financial or other assistance to help you get back on your feet.

For financial assistance, you can find more information or apply for grants online at www.qld.gov.au/DisasterHelp or call the Community Recover Hotline on 1800 173 349.  If you require emotional support, please call the dedicated Community Recovery Lifeline Hotline on 1800 116 671.

For further road conditions, check Council’s Emergency Dashboard for road closures, weather alerts, and emergency updates at https://getready.charterstowers.qld.gov.au/ or follow @ChartersTowersRegionalCouncil on Facebook. 

If you are travelling outside our region, visit QLD Traffic for road closures: https://qldtraffic.qld.gov.au