I KNOW you’ve seen a lot about ex Tropical Cyclone Alfred in the news, and all the impacts it has had on our city. But one thing that has really stood out to me is Logan’s amazing community spirit through this. I’d like to use this column to say a massive thank you to you, Logan. You are incredible.
This disaster, we had more time to prepare than any major flood before. We supplied 3500 tonnes of loose sand, 249,000 bags and 7900 pre-filled sandbags to five locations around the city. I saw neighbours helping each other prepare their homes, and help each other fill sandbags. Before the storm, the SES assisted with pre-filled bags and also delivered them to those in need.
That meant fewer people needed assistance – so it’s proved to me that having a lot of sand and sandbags available ahead of a flood is really valued by our community.
I love the way you have all been supporting each other and staying connected too. Whether it’s on social media, helping each other out in the comments, or checking on someone in need down the road. Energex crews worked around the clock to get power back to homes and businesses as soon as possible. With over 300,000 people losing power, that’s a mammoth task.
It was great to have a visit from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Treasurer (and local MP!) Jim Chalmers to our city on Sunday too. Albo came to Logan before going to the Gold Coast (Logan Shores) and I think this confirms what we all know: Logan is definitely better at handling a disaster.
When the PM came to town he also visited the Council staff in the disaster management centre who were volunteering on their days off to keep the city safe. They are some of the unsung heroes during floods (and cyclones now too).
They work tirelessly to make sure roads are open or closed for your safety, the monitor the state of the rivers and they help keep families safe. I know they were really encouraged by the PM’s visit, and also all of your supportive messages that you regularly share with me online.
I also wanted to say a big thank you to all of the community centres and venues that opened their doors to be evacuation or refuge centres, and the people who kept those running.
You provided something really important to so many: whether that was electricity, a warm cup of coffee, somewhere to sleep safely, or an ear to listen.
