Lifeline teams to hit the ground in Charleville and Roma

A cow in a flooded paddock in North Queensland during last year's floods. Photo by McKay Patrol flying minister Rev Garry Hardingham 

Unable to gain immediate access to Roma and Charleville districts due to flooded roads, Lifeline Community Recovery teams will be on the ground tomorrow to provide direct support to those affected.

The Lifeline Community Recovery program is specifically designed to support individuals and communities affected by disasters or events.

Community Recovery Manager Richard Johnson said hundreds of homes have been damaged in Charleville and up to 100 people are now sleeping in the evacuation centre.

“Having to sleep away from your home and belongings knowing they are susceptible to further damage is often a hard thing to endure,” Richard said.

“Not knowing when the rain will stop can also cause anxiety,” he said.

Community Recovery Officers are available in the evacuation centre to talk to about any concerns residents may have or emotions they feel during this disruptive and difficult time and to work through the next steps towards recovery.

Lifeline Community Recovery workers will be included as part of a number of outreach teams deployed to attend to residents who have been isolated in their homes to ensure they have access to the support they need.

“Lifeline has mobilised a team of 15 staff for the immediate support of people in the Roma and Charleville districts and will continue to assess the needs for the medium to long term,” Richard said.

“Community Recovery workers are coming from Brisbane, Toowoomba, Ipswich, and as far afield as Cairns and Bundaberg.

“It is possible nearby townships will be declared disaster zones if the rain continues.

“Should this happen, Lifeline Community Care is equipped and ready to provide support to these regions,” he said.

Lifeline Telephone Counsellors are available 24 hours a day on 13 11 14.