FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK, CR JAMIE CHAFFEY:
Once again, we have seen flooding in Gunnedah, with the possibility of more to come.
Our thoughts are with those who have, for the second time in 12 months, had to battle the elements and watched the Namoi or the Mooki rise towards their homes.
It is disheartening for residents to be facing potential damage to homes and property, and another flood clean-up so soon after the last one.
Our thanks go out to everyone who has helped in these very difficult and often dangerous circumstances – the State Emergency Service and all emergency service staff, people who knocked on doors to warn residents, volunteers who helped where needed, council staff who have worked to keep the roads as safe as possible as the water rises and recedes.
Council staff will now be assessing the condition of roads to best meet the needs of residents, businesses and travellers. There is expected to be significant damage to the road network and as much as possible will be done to repair roads as quickly as possible.
Motorists are asked to drive with care, not enter floodwaters, and obey traffic signs.
We also need to be aware that the Bureau of Meteorology is predicting more rain this week and next week, with the potential for rising river levels. It is possible there may be another flood.
You can keep an eye on weather warnings through the Bureau of Meteorology website – www.bom.gov.au, and please do not hesitate to contact emergency services if you need urgent assistance.
This is a difficult time, and I urge everyone to look out for their families and their neighbours. Even a little bit of help can go a long way.
This Thursday, I invite the Gunnedah Shire community to say farewell to Her Majesty The Queen in an official memorial service.
We will join the world in paying tribute to the monarch who reigned for 70 years; a kind and fair Queen who gave unquestioningly of her time and herself.
Queen Elizabeth II visited Australia 16 times. She was loved by millions for her grace and dignity, and her tours were always joyous occasions in the cities and towns she visited.
Most of us have never known any other sovereign. She reigned through the generations, through huge global changes and times of despair and triumph. This is truly the end of an era.
We will farewell Queen Elizabeth II in a memorial service in the Smithurst Theatre forecourt at 10.45 on Thursday, September 22.
Community members are invited to join us and lay a floral tribute to remember our much-loved Queen.
Long Live the King.
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