Shoalhaven Declared Natural Disaster Area
7 Sep 10
The Shoalhaven along with Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Wingecarribbe, Eurobodalla, Tumut, Gundagai and Tumbarumba have all been declared Natural Disaster Areas by the State Government.
Emergency Services Minister Steve Whan made the declaration following the weekends wind storms that caused havoc throughout parts of the state.
He acknowledged the widespread damage that has affected residents, businesses, councils and primary producers and pledged assistance where needed by the State Government. He said "The Keneally Government stands ready to provide these communities and any others with the help they need to recover from such natural disasters."
Damaged facilities and infrastructure in the Shoalhaven include the Sussex Inlet Communications Tower, the Sanctuary Point Fire Station, water pipes, fences, holiday vans and cabins, playgrounds, water mains, motor vehicles, tennis courts and cemeteries among others.
The estimated repair and cleanup costs for the Shoalhaven are expected to top 1 million dollars as a variety of infrastructure and facilities throughout the city have been damaged or destroyed.
With power still out in some areas of the Shoalhaven, residents are asked to be mindful of food safety and dispose of all contaminated products using council's weekly garbage collection.
Shoalhaven water requests that water use is kept to a minimum until the city's sewage systems are working to full capacity.
Mr Whan congratulated all of the emergency services and volunteers for their untiring work to restore services to those in need.
For personal hardship and distress assistance contact Community Services, Disaster Welfare Services on 1800 018 444.
Other assistance agencies and more information can be found at http://www.emergency.nsw.gov.au/contact.html or by phoning 02 82475900.
CONTACT: Shoalhaven City Mayor Councillor Paul Green (02) 4429 3251
0423 881 873