North Queensland is currently grappling with severe flooding, causing significant disruption to the community as food, water, and power remain critically low. Generators are being airlifted to assist residents affected by the disaster, with many locals, including Ingham resident Keenan, using boats to navigate the inundated streets. The floods have not only devastated homes but also jeopardised local livelihoods, particularly within the sugar cane and banana farming sectors.
Keenan has voiced concerns over dwindling supplies, highlighting that major supermarkets have been closed for three days, leading to a desperate shortage of provisions. He shares that the local water supply is also at risk of depletion, raising fears about access to fresh water.
Families have been forced to separate for safety as flooding intensified. One resident, Chris, describes the anxious moments as they evacuated, recounting how they moved vehicles to higher ground to avoid flooding.
Approximately 7,000 homes are still without power, and the local substation remains submerged, compounding the challenges faced by the community. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has visited the area and called for the Australian Defence Force’s assistance to deliver essential supplies. Although floodwaters are receding, rainfall continues, leaving residents cautiously optimistic about recovery.