SES SAY "IF IN DOUBT, STAY OUT"

Friday, 23 December 2011 09:46

Media Releases - Kevin Anderson Media Release

28 November 2011

SES SAY "IF IN DOUBT, STAY OUT"

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson has called on motorists not to drive through flooded roadways and causeways. This call comes after the Namoi SES rescued 15 people over the weekend.

"I urge people to not cross flooded roadways, quite simply it is dangerous. It puts people's lives at risk, including our rescuers.

"The SES need to be concentrating on the situation at hand rather than rescuing those who choose to take unnecessary risks.

" Kathleen Cain, Regional Controller Namoi SES, is desperate to get the message out for people to stay away from flooded areas. If in doubt, stay out," Mr Anderson said.

"At this stage the Oxley Highway between Gunnedah and Tamworth is closed and the Kamilaroi Highway between Gunnedah and Boggabri is still closed.

"For those seeking updated important information on local road closures in the Gunnedah region they can access information online at www.infogunnedah.com.au or call Council on 6740 2130 24 hours a day or the RTA on 132 701.

Mr Anderson said, "I have spoken with Gunnedah Mayor Adam Marshall in relation to the problems caused by flooding and have offered him my full assistance.

"The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting more rain over the next few days and State Water will be forced to continue with releasing water from Lake Keepit for flood mitigation. 

State Water, Manager of Water Delivery, Mr Dan Berry has advised that this may have an impact downstream on the Namoi and surrounding low lying areas. However, they are constantly monitoring the situation, planning for the worst and hoping for the best.

"With BOM predictions of a wetter than average summer this year, State Water are prepared and also urging people on the floodplain to make preparations, having plans in place for this and the next flooding event", Mr Berry said.

"My thoughts are with those people in lying areas that have been forced to evacuate stock and move machinery to higher ground, as well those land holders caught in the middle of harvest", Mr Anderson concluded.

Ends