The Power’s Back On Cyclone Response A Success

Local Ergon Energy crews worked tirelessly to reconnect power to thousands of Burdekin customers. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

‍

The Burdekin Survives Ex TC Kirrily

Streets, parks and backyards were littered with fallen trees and branches after ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily crossed over the Burdekin last Thursday, January 25, and while damage was considered minimal, the event left large parts of the region without power for days.

The cyclone’s damaging winds had a major effect on north Queensland’s power network, with over 9,000 Burdekin customers losing their power from Thursday night, and the last of those regaining power earlier this week.

Ergon Energy Area Manager Matt Oar said local and visiting crews were out in the field repairing the network as soon is it was safe to return to work after the cyclone passed.

“We had crews working 24/7, not just on call, but actually working around the clock to restore power to customers,” Mr Oar said.

“A lot of these staff who were at work were leaving their families without power at home for a couple of days.

“We’ve turned an event that potentially could have lasted a week into three days.”

On top of 48 local staff, 203 workers travelled into the region from across the state.

“I’m just so thankful and proud of what our crews have done and what they’ve been able to achieve in such a short amount of time,” Mr Oar said.

“The community’s been so positive when we’re out and about, they understand that we’ve got challenges but we’re doing our best to get the power on as soon as we can.”

For the SES, regular natural disaster preparations ramped up on Saturday, January 20 when sandbags became a priority as the cyclone approached.

Burdekin SES Local Controller Warren Francis estimated that over 9,500 sandbags were provided by the SES to residents of the Burdekin.

“This is by far the largest number of sandbags consumed on a single operation,” Mr Francis said.

“I’m very impressed with how the community reacted.”

At least 120 jobs have been logged with the SES throughout the event including sandbagging, one tarp job, and vegetation clearing post-event.

“Our role is to cut an access into a house; if a tree’s fallen down and blocked access to a house or driveway, we’ll clear that, but we don’t go around and clean people’s yards,” Mr Francis clarified.

Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) Lyn McLaughlin said the event was an opportunity to showcase the community’s resilience and preparedness.

“I want to express my sincere thanks to everyone involved in the recent weather event," Ms McLaughlin said.

“Thank you to all who volunteered and assisted their family, friends and neighbours.

“To the SES Volunteers, Ergon Energy and the Burdekin Shire Council staff for leaving their homes and giving up their time to help the community.

“Their efforts do not go unnoticed and are greatly appreciated.

“The LDMG will continue to monitor the affects from ex-TC Kirrily and will provide regular updates to the public as needed via Council’s website, Disaster Dashboard and the Burdekin Disaster and Emergency Information Facebook page.”

Personal Hardship Assistance Grants are now available to residents in the Burdekin Shire who have been affected by the Tropical Cyclone Kirrily.

To check your eligibility and submit an application, visit www.qld.gov.au/DisasterHelp, phone the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349 or visit the Community Recovery pop-up hub at Burdekin Community Association, 130 Queen Street, Ayr.

‍

LDMG Chair Lyn McLaughlin and Local Disaster Coordinator Eileen Devescovi

‍