The Queensland floods have been the outback’s worst on record. Huge parts of the outback are underwater. Livestock losses are in the millions, and residents are evacuating. The Wide Bay region in particular experience 300mm of rain in just over 24 hours. Several inland areas of Queensland are on alert still for flooding.
Additionally, there is a risk of major rivers spilling over and causing floods across the region. Flood warnings are in place for Bulloo, Flinders, Georgina, Paroo, Thomson, Barcoo, and Warrego Rivers. Residents of these areas are accustomed to extreme weather events, but the financial toll of the floods continues to rise.
Queensland Floods Spell Disaster for Farmers
With thousands of livestock lost, the Queensland floods are spelling disaster for farmers. Nationals leader David Littleproud said Australians will have to “wait and see” what the long-term damages are.
Privately owned helicopters have been working with government officials to ensure that the surviving cattle don’t starve. Agriculture is the lifeblood of many of these communities, so ensuring fodder for cattle is a high priority. The State and federal government are working on a $5 million package to subsidise the fodder. Premier of Queensland, David Crisafulli, said that the government is working to establish hubs for fuel and fodder in partnership with the department of defense.
Farmers won’t be able to tell the extent of the damage until the water goes down. In some areas of the southern region such as Thargomindah, waters continue to rise.
Additionally, there are grants of up to $1,765 for individuals and up to $5,300 for families who have lost essential goods.
AgForce General President Shane McCarthy said, “It’s not just numbers of stock, it’s also infrastructure.”
Fences, houses, sheds, and road infrastructure have all been significantly affected.
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