Townsville City Council has endorsed the Event Specific Local Recovery and Resilience Action Plan (ESLRRAP) – a comprehensive plan developed by the Local Recovery and Resilience Group capturing recovery actions already underway while setting the direction for the next stages of recovery following the devastating North and Far North Tropical Monsoon Low event that began on 29 January this year.
The extreme weather system delivered record-breaking rainfall from Cairns to Mackay and west to Etheridge Shire.
In Townsville, 16 consecutive days of rain produced an average of 1.2m worth of rainfall across the city – nearly a full year’s rainfall in just over a month. The result was widespread flooding, landslides, significant infrastructure damage and the evacuation of about 4000 residents.
Despite the scale of the event, recovery efforts began immediately.
Local Recovery and Resilience Group Chairperson and Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said the plan formalised and strengthened the extensive recovery work that had been progressing during the past six months.
“Recovery in Townsville didn’t wait for a plan to be published, it started the moment the rain stopped. This document brings together the many actions already taken and sets out a clear roadmap for the continued recovery of our people, infrastructure, economy and environment,” Cr Greaney said.
The ESLRRAP outlines how recovery agencies across Townsville have been supporting displaced residents, restoring damaged infrastructure, coordinating health and wellbeing services, and reconnecting communities. It also details upcoming priorities and longer-term resilience initiatives.
“This plan acknowledges what’s already been achieved through strong local leadership and community effort, and it ensures we stay focused and coordinated for the work still to come,” Cr Greaney said.
“Early funding support from the State Government, along with the rapid establishment of the Insurance Hub at Queensland Country Bank Stadium and the Small Business Recovery Hub at Smart Precinct NQ, ensured vital recovery assistance was delivered to affected residents and businesses in the critical early weeks.”
Major infrastructure routes such as the Bruce Highway, Flinders Highway, Gregory Development Road and Ollera Creek Bridge were impacted by the event, along with local roads, rail lines and air services.
The flood also increased public health risks and placed significant stress on homes, businesses and community wellbeing.
“The ESLRRAP reflects the reality that recovery is a marathon, not a sprint,” Cr Greaney said.
“We’re committed to supporting our community through each stage and building a stronger, more resilient future for Townsville.”
Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) CEO Professor Selina Stead thanked Council for its prompt response in restoring access to Cape Cleveland Road.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Townsville City Council for their swift action in repairing the road into AIMS once the floodwaters receded, ensuring our staff could safely return to work and critical research could continue,” Professor Stead said.
For more information on how Townsville recovers following a disaster, visit Council’s Recovery Information page.
