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2010-02-19 04:37:30 - Complex Emergency - Australia EDIS CODE: CE-20100219-24986-AUS
Date & Time: 2010-02-19 04:37:30 [UTC]
Area: Australia, State of New South Wales, Bega Dsitrict, Damage level: Heavy (Level 3)
Not confirmed information! Description: Emergency Services Minister Steve Whan has announced a natural disaster declaration for the Bega local government area while Bega Valley Shire Council engineers are still assessing the collateral damage which is expected to reach up to $6 million. Mr Whan said damage caused by heavy rainfall over the last week had been made worse by torrential falls. “Hundreds of millimetres of rain have fallen over Bega Valley Shire in the last few days, isolating residents and forcing the closure of schools and other facilities,” he said. “Heavy rain has destroyed one bridge and damaged several others. “In addition roads have been closed by landslips, damaged culverts and fallen trees.” Mr Whan said a number of rural properties were affected by rising floodwater. “The declaration means that a range of people who have suffered property damage, including residents, primary producers and business owners, can seek assistance,” he said. “In particular the Natural Disaster Declaration will assist the Bega Valley Shire Council with the cost of repairing serious damage caused by flood waters and heavy rain. “The State Government stands ready to provide these communities with the assistance they need.” Mr Whan congratulated the State Emergency Service (SES) for their work over the past week. “The State Emergency Service and other agencies working throughout the rain and flooding continue to do an outstanding job,” Mr Whan said. Bega Valley Shire Council mayor, Tony Allen, said although the flooding has caused widespread damage in places “the benefits of the rain to the valley and well being of the community far outweigh any problems created”. “There have been significant road issues as a result of the flooding, mainly on the unmade roads, but this will be sorted out over time. “The valley is just so green now ... this has been the biggest amount of rainfall spread over the two weekends, since 1971,” he said. “It’s been 14 years since we have had a proper spring but we can’t say the drought is over until the spring time. “Everyone appreciates the rain, whether you are a townie or live rural. “It means most dairy farmers can expect an increase in milk supply and beef farmers can buy back stock if they want. “This rain has given everyone more confidence in the future,” Mr Allen said.
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