Craig Lowndes urges Townsville to rev up cyclone prep
Date published: 23 November 2016
Suncorp ambassador and V8 legend Craig Lowndes today reminded Townsville residents that time was running out to enlist their street as a Cyclone Ready Street and score a free BBQ on Sunday (27 November).
Lowndes visited the resilience award-winning retirement village Carlyle Gardens to talk about community preparations ahead of the cyclone season.
Lowndes and Townsville Local Disaster Management Group deputy chair, Cr Kurt Rehbein, said Cyclone Ready Streets was a new initiative which is encouraging residents to get together to prepare their streets on Sunday.
“Cyclone Ready Streets is a new campaign that makes it fast and easy for people to get cyclone ready,” Lowndes said.
“Just like in racing, safety and performance are about preparation. To win Bathurst you have to be ready for all conditions.
“I've spent my whole life at high speed, but nothing moves like a cyclone.
“Cyclones can cause a lot of damage to people and property, but nine out of ten claims involve damage that could’ve been prevented by proper planning and a few simple steps.
“Get your friends and neighbours together and be prepared, it’s the best advantage you can get.”
Cr Rehbein said the new initiative was also an opportunity to get to know neighbours.
“We’re pleased to partner with Suncorp on this important initiative. To make it easier we’ve also launched a 3x3 action plan which people can access on the website,” Cr Rehbein said.
“The plan is all about what people need to do now, and what people need to do later when a storm or cyclone is on its way.
“There are great rewards on offer like free BBQ packs and tip vouchers for those who register a team.
“Working together as a street to clear fallen branches, clean gutters and downpipes and trim trees is an easy way for neighbours to minimise any potential damage brought on by strong winds and heavy rain.
“It’s about helping each other, assisting elderly residents in the street, or those who can’t get to the dump.”
Carlyle Gardens resident and secretary of their Disaster Management Group, John Wilson, said residents were ex-cited to meet Craig and talk about their award winning cyclone preparedness strategy and action plan.
“Having a solid action plan and not being complacent during cyclone season is critical for us here at Carlyle Gardens, and we’re thrilled to be able to host the Suncorp Cyclone Ready Streets ambassador, Craig, today,” Mr Wilson said.
“I hope we can inspire other neighbourhoods to put their disaster plans in place and get involved.”
Carlyle Gardens won the community category at this year’s Get Ready Queensland Resilient Australia Awards.
To get cyclone ready register your crew at www.cyclonereadystreets.com and get free steaks and sausages for a street BBQ. Registrations close 5pm Friday (25 November).
