Degarra residents in Far North Queensland have welcomed news temporary housing is finally on the way after the community was left devastated in the wake of Cyclone Jasper and flooding more than one month ago.
Locals made headlines nationwide this week after warning they’re at breaking point, and in urgent need of the disaster recovery assistance which was signed off on more than a week ago.
Douglas Shire Mayor, Michael Kerr said it’s good to see common sense has prevailed.
“Bureaucratic red tape stalled the delivery of seven caravans to Degarra. This was unacceptable and I’m grateful the Department of Housing has now listened to the needs of locals,” Mayor Kerr said.
“Minister Meaghan Scanlan assured me a short time ago that caravans will be placed in Degarra as quickly as humanly possible.”
The Department of Housing came under fire yesterday after refusing to move the caravans onto private properties because of “insurance” reasons.
Currently the vehicles are sitting unused at Bloomfield – three hours walk away for residents.
Today State Government representatives joined the caravan supplier to inspect appropriate sites near where flood victims are facing a massive clean-up and are now working through the logistics of moving the vehicles.
“It’s better late than never but I hope decision makers learn from this, and in the future mobilise help far more quickly and appropriately,” Mayor Kerr said.
“We are grateful to everyone working hard in this recovery effort and expect at least 30 more caravans to arrive by barge in coming weeks”
