Well ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred certainly had us all on our toes last month.
‘Alfred’ was my first event as Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group and was a valuable learning experience.
A lot of work went into preparation for the cyclone with the key principle being ‘prepare for the worst and hope for the best’, and as it turned out we were fortunate that the Alfred slowed down and weakened as it approached the coast, sparing South East Queensland and the Scenic Rim from a much more devastating outcome with few reports of damage to dwellings and structures, and without the loss of a single life.
Notwithstanding this, communities to the east of the region such as Tamborine, Tamborine Mountain, Beechmont and the valleys to the south of Canungra were without electricity and in some cases telecommunications for more than a week.
Additionally many roads were closed either by fallen trees or post cyclone flooding.
Post event, the recovery has progressed well with life returning to normal for most of the region quite quickly.
I would like to commend the Council crews and support agencies for their swift response to the recovery efforts, particularly around the removal of event-related waste from the kerbside.
I would like to thank all in Canungra and Beechmont for acting responsibly and following the advice provided during the ex-Tropical Cyclone.
I have heard many wonderful stories of locals helping each other to ensure everyone was kept safe during the event.
Last week Council endorsed its draft Corporate Plan 2025-2030 and is seeking feedback on this document which will chart the direction for Council and our community for the next five years.
Don’t miss this valuable opportunity to have your say, either at face-to-face community consultation sessions or online through Council’s website letstalkscenicrim.qld.gov.au
May will bring with it Scenic Rim Small Business Month – and in 2025 Council will be delivering a range of events and workshops to the local business community that will support diversity and growth.
I encourage all local businesses to check out the program and book your places at these events. You can find more information on Council’s website.
Council’s School Holiday program is packed with free and low-cost activities at Scenic Rim libraries and cultural centres during the April school holidays – which start this weekend.
There’s plenty to keep everyone busy, including interactive workshops and great value entertainment with family-friendly movies. Visit whatsonscenicrim.com.
