Natural disaster declaration for Lennox Head welcomed
Member for Ballina Don Page has welcomed the natural disaster declaration early this morning in relation to damage at Lennox Head and beyond.
Mr Page was in Lennox Head early this morning when the declaration was made.
“The declaration means State money will be available to assist the clean-up,” Mr Page said.
“Already sub-contractors have been hired to complete work as quickly as possible.
“It is important that the clean-up occur quickly because asbestos in some of the debris is relatively safe whilst it is still wet but becomes a health issue if it’s left and allowed to dry.
“Also, the debris needs to be cleaned up as quickly as possible in case we have a further incidence of high winds, which would blow that debris around.
“I spent yesterday afternoon and from 6.30am this morning on site with local residents and emergency service workers.
“I was impressed by the co-operative spirit on display, both between rescue services and among the local residents. The Aussie tradition of looking after your mates in a crisis was very much in evidence.”
Mr Page complimented the SES, Police, Ambulance, the Rural Fire Service, the Fire Brigade and all volunteers who are assisting with the massive clean-up.
He said that Country Energy had channelled all available resources into Lennox Head and had done a good job in trying to restore power to as many places as quickly as possible.
“Feedback from local residents indicates there were a number of near misses for local residents. It’s amazing that there were so few personal injuries,” Mr Page said.
The mood of the town today was one of taking stock of the considerable damage that has occurred and the reality of the time, money and energy required to rebuild seriously damaged homes, replace damaged vehicles and generally clean up.
Mr Page congratulated the Lennox Head community on their concern and support for each other.
“This has been a very traumatic time for residents who have had their homes destroyed or badly damaged. It has been most uplifting to see the way the community has come together to assist each other at this difficult time,” he said.
