FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – Residents in remote northern Queensland have been evacuated by air amid record-breaking floods that have submerged over 100 homes in towns more than 1,000 kilometers west of Brisbane.
The Bureau of Meteorology reported Saturday that floodwaters in the region surpassed levels last seen in 1974.
Residents of Adavale and Jundah, along with those on remote properties, were airlifted after flooding made roads inaccessible.
Cattle farmer Geoff Lloyd, who was evacuated Thursday, described the impact as “horrific,” citing devastating losses to the cattle industry, a vital part of the region’s economy.
Helicopter pilots assisting with rescues are reportedly running low on fuel.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced AUD 2.5 million (USD 1.57 million) in federal and state funding for emergency cattle fodder drops and said the Australian Defence Force could be called in to assist.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued major flood warnings for eight rivers and two creeks in the area. Authorities urged residents to arrange air evacuations.