THE devastation caused by ex-Cyclone Debbie has been eased a little thanks to clean-up efforts.
Recovery operations began early last week as floodwaters receded, with urban and rural fire brigades and State Emergency Service personnel working together in a coordinated response.
SES operational capability officer Jason Daniel said much of the tidy-up was finished last Thursday, with the wash-down of walls and driveways ongoing.
While the damage bill has not yet been calculated, Logan City deputy mayor Cherie Dalley said helping those flooded-out was the top priority.
“Our concern is the emotional cost of people affected by the floods and getting their houses back in order,” she said.
Cr Dalley said about 300 properties in Logan were inundated, which included houses at Bannockburn, Cedar Creek, North Maclean and South Maclean.
South Maclean resident Samantha Strijland, whose home was soaked, said the removal of rubbish by spontaneous clean-up crews, which included the Greenbank Scouts, had helped the community.
Greenbank Scout leader Tony Langler said up to 50 adults and youth responded to his Facebook shout-out, with plumbers and electricians also recruited.
Other individuals and community groups also lent a hand – Silky Oak Espresso manager Carmela Baxter, who travelled in a coffee van from north Brisbane, made free hot drinks for giveaway.
While there were anecdotal reports of looting throughout the recovery, the work by volunteers has been praised. Employment and Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said she was inspired by those who put their lives on hold to help out.
She thanked mud army volunteers assembled at Browns Plains’ Logan Metro Sports Centre last Thursday.
Access Community Services’ Michael Pearson, who coordinated the Logan City Council’s mud army recruit, said the safety of those cleaning-up in filthy conditions was paramount. Registered volunteers covered by WorkCover Queensland and vaccinated against tetanus where required.
For help to hose and wash flood-affected walls and surfaces, Mr Daniel said call the SES flood and storm emergencies hotline on 132 500.
