Bush’s fighting spirit will overcome the floods

DISASTERS like the devastating floods afflicting southwest Queensland demonstrated the strength and compassion of rural communities, Member for Warrego Howard Hobbs said today.

Mr Hobbs said as he moved about the electorate and spoke to those affected, the overwhelming emotion was concern for the plight of others.

 “The first question most people whose homes and lives have been shattered by the floods ask is, ‘how are others coping’,” he said.

 “I have been overwhelmed but not surprised by the selfless service of the countless emergency services personnel and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to minimise damage or to clean up and assist those affected after the event.

 “Some people are continuing to do their own job during the day and are then spending the whole night and weekends working in affected areas.

 “These are record events in terms of the damage they have inflicted, but thousands of people have put the greater benefit of their communities and the needs of others above their own.”

 Mr Hobbs said it was difficult to single out individuals and organisations for praise, but he would like, on behalf of those who have been unable to do so personally, to offer the thanks of all those in affected communities.

 “The emergency services like the police, Queensland Fire and Rescue, the ambulance and the Sate Emergency Service volunteers are conspicuous because of their constant support to communities,” he said.

 “I would especially like to thank mayors, councillors, council staff and workers who have toiled to minimise damage to communities, and who have then manned evacuation centres to evacuate victims, assist them with medical and financial services, often neglecting their own properties and needs in the process.

 “Non-government organisations like the Red Cross and the RSL have been magnificent in terms of personnel and resources to offer shelter and comfort for those who suffered from the floods.

 “The media have also played their part in keeping people informed and keeping them entertained throughout this ordeal.

 “I know of at least one prominent local member of the media who has worked extra time at his job, then spent nights with little or no sleep leading SES volunteers.

 “From the messages of concern and offers of support we have received, we know that the rest of Queensland is also doing its bit to help people who have suffered so much, and who have lost so much.

 “Much of the hard work and suffering are still to come, but I know with the fighting spirit I have seen so far, and with the resilience of people in rural communities that they will overcome their present difficulties.

 “On behalf of all of them, I thank all those who have given them the support, the assistance and the encouragement to do so.”