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Floods

Devastation and Resilience: Kempsey Shire Council Seeks Urgent Recovery Support

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Councillor Kinne Ring of Kempsey Shire Council welcomed state and federal ministers to the region on Monday, May 26, to witness firsthand the widespread devastation caused by recent flooding and advocate for urgent recovery support. The visit, supported by local members Michael Kemp MP and Pat Conaghan MP, included federal Minister Kristy McBain, NSW Minister Janelle Saffin, and NSW Minister Jenny Aitchison. The delegation toured the affected areas, meeting with locals, farmers, business owners, and emergency service personnel to discuss recovery priorities and hear firsthand accounts of the disaster's impact.

Key Takeaways:

  • The recent flooding has caused widespread devastation in Kempsey Shire, necessitating urgent recovery support from state and federal governments.
  • The visit by state and federal ministers provided a powerful insight into the scale of the disaster and its impact on the local community, local businesses, and the agricultural industry.
  • Councillor Ring is calling on the government to provide further funding to help council, residents, and businesses rebuild and recover.
  • The community has shown extraordinary resilience and solidarity in the face of adversity, with many volunteers and emergency service personnel working together to help those affected.
  • The Kempsey Shire has experienced 26 natural disaster declarations since November 2009, including multiple floods, bushfires, intense drought, and coastal storms.
  • The Macleay River, critical to the agriculture industry and the area's development, has also created a significant and complex catchment area of 11,500 square kilometres.
  • Council will continue to work closely with all levels of government and community partners to support recovery efforts.

Statistics:

  • 26 natural disaster declarations for the Kempsey Shire since November 2009.
  • The Macleay River creates a catchment area of 11,500 square kilometres.
  • The recent flooding has devastated a significant portion of this catchment area, impacting local businesses, agriculture, and the community.

Sources:

  • Kempsey Shire Council, "Mayor Kinne Ring welcomes Ministers to Kempsey Shire" [1]
  • "Community and Emergency Service Support", Kempsey Shire website [2]

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