When water engulfed the bottom floor of the White House at Waterford building, there was nothing business owners could do but wait for the clean-up to begin.
There were 54 businesses inundated during the floods, according to Logan City Council figures.
But they’re all praising the efforts of those who got their hands dirty during the massive clean-up efforts.
Ray White Waterford owner Lisa Knowles said her office wouldn’t be usable until early to mid-April as the concrete floors dry out and other repairs are carried out.
She is currently working from home.
The incredible support that she received from the community was incredible, she said.
“People generously gave their time and support and the opportunity to have a chat at any time has certainly been more than we could have ever anticipated,” she said.
“The Logan community comes together in times of need and we couldn’t be more appreciative of everyone who has helped our businesses get up and running.”
The upstairs restaurant escaped the worst of it, but owner Rebecca Cobbing said the community’s support had been overwhelming.
“We had about 100 volunteers here to help us clean up,” Ms Cobbing said.
“There’s still a lot of work to do but we’ll be trading properly this week.
“We won’t be able to host weddings for about six months until we replace our decorations and styling, which we’d collected over about six years, and re-establish the outdoor area.”
Mayor Darren Power said council recognised the impact on affected businesses and how critical it was to help them bounce back, particularly after they weathered pandemic lockdowns over the last two years.
“When you invest blood, sweat and tears into building a business, it can be heartbreaking to see it destroyed so cruelly and quickly,” Councillor Power said.
“Our city’s businesses are the backbone of a strong local economy, so it’s important that council does what it can to help those impacted get back on their feet again.”
Support measures include up to $5000 per eligible business to assist with the following:
• Professional advice and support.
• Digital and marketing activities to assist local businesses discover new customers and grow revenue.
• Relocation costs for affected local businesses wanting to move to other locations within Logan.
• Replacement, repair or restoration of essential items for business operations such as signage or furniture.
• Rebates on approved business development courses to develop disaster preparedness and mitigation skills.
