Stranded residents face isolation in flood-hit Cairns

Flooded road at Trinity Beach in Cairns

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The flood warnings are still in effect in many towns across Far North Queensland. A Filipino household from Trinity Beach shared their firsthand account of the crisis and its ongoing impact.

Key Points

Residents find themselves cut off and isolated due to submerged roads, hindering access to essentials and work.
The government promises financial help for affected residents.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will visit and assess the flooded area on Thursday.

Far North Queensland has been submerged in floodwaters following the devastating impact of Cyclone Jasper.

The torrential flooding has made rescue operations challenging, particularly in Wujal Wujal where water levels have risen significantly, hindering access for emergency response teams.

The aftermath of the cyclone has also wreaked havoc on a significant portion of Cairns, causing widespread damage and leaving numerous residents stranded.

Flooded streets in Trinity Beach, Cairns

Roads engulfed by rising floods outside Conrad Cruz's residence in Trinity Beach, Cairns.

Assistant Nurse Conrad Cruz expressed gratitude that their residence in Trinity Beach, Cairns, remained untouched by the floods. However, the roads leading out of the area are submerged, leaving Conrad, his family, and other residents cut off from essential services and unable to commute for work.

"The streets are heavily flooded. I've been unable to leave since Wednesday, and on Saturday, we remain stuck here due to the flooding on Trinity Beach road and overflow warnings from Blue Waters."

The region, which has experienced severe flooding faces concerns about the availability of basic necessities such as water and food. Additionally, the treated water supply is under strain, prompting warnings to conserve water resources.

While rainfall has slightly eased in some areas, flood warnings persist across multiple towns.

Cairns Airport has reopened, but the impact on transportation and infrastructure remains significant.

Queensland Premier Steven Miles announced the operational status of the water treatment plant in Cairns, aiming to provide clean water to the city center.

Financial assistance has also been pledged by the government for flood-affected residents in several regions, offering support based on the extent of flood-related disruption to their lives.

Aid applications opened on December 20, with adult residents eligible for $1000 and children for $400 or up to 13 weeks of income support, depending on the severity of the impact.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese plans to visit affected areas to assess the situation on Thursday, emphasizing the critical need for support, particularly in addressing mental health challenges faced by those affected.

This flood ranks among the worst in the region’s history, causing extensive damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Despite the challenges, residents like Conrad remain hopeful for quick aid and a return to normalcy soon.