TLDMG moves to ‘lean forward’ as tropical low moves towards Queensland coast

The Townsville Local Disaster Management Group (TLDMG) has moved to ‘lean forward’ as it continues to monitor the slow moving tropical low currently in the Coral Sea off the North Queensland coast.

The weather system is expected to move closer to land over the next few days, possibly crossing the coast between Innisfail and Airlie Beach.

TLDMG Chair Jenny Hill said the decision to move to lean forward was made this morning, in preparation for any weather event.

“Even though we are yet to see a cyclone form, we want to give the community confidence the TLDMG is ready to respond,” Cr Hill said.

“The TLDMG is encouraging residents to get their emergency kits ready, ensuring they include any prescription medicine, cash and identify documents.”

Cr Hill said sand and SES supplied bags would be available at four additional locations, bringing the total number of sites available to seven.

Filled sandbags will be available at the Dalrymple Road Depot site and delivered to the Cungulla Community Centre from Wednesday morning.

“I ask the community to be considerate and only take what you need. We know 25 sandbags are adequate to protect an average house from inundation,” Cr Hill said.

Cr Hill also urged residents living in low lying areas to consider making plans to relocate to family or friends if required.

For the latest information and instructions head to Townsville City Council’s Emergency Management and Disaster Dashboard, listen to local radio or phone 13 48 10.

Sandbag sites

• Ross Dam car park, Upper Ross, behind the Parks compound
• Lou Litster Park, behind Officeworks at Hermit Park
• The carpark at the Local Disaster Coordination Centre Dalrymple Road Depot
• Corner of Bruce Highway & Mt Low Parkway
• Bluewater SES Depot
• Rupertswood Rural Fire Shed (14 Progress Rd, Alice River)
• Cungulla Community Centre/

Additional Information

Storm Tide Evacuation Maps.

Be proactive and protect yourself and family with these tips:

• Review your emergency kit and plan. Ensure your emergency kit has enough supplies for all family members, including pets, to sustain themselves for at least three days
• Make sure you have a portable radio and some batteries in case your phone runs out of charge and you need to stay informed
• Clean out your house gutters and overhanging branches
• Mow grass and secure items in your yard
• Secure and tighten fixings and tie-down bolts on your roof
• Remove and store loose furniture or items that could become airborne missiles
• Find out how to turn off mains power for gas, water and electricity
• Purchase emergency supplies such as masking tape, tarps, sandbags and water containers
• Check your insurance policy to make sure it is current and know what events you are covered for
• Take photos of home and business contents and belongings for evidence in case damaged during the event.

Remember you can load up your car with any green waste and household items like white goods and cardboard, these items are free to dispose of all year round at our waste facilities.

Please be mindful there may be extended wait times at our waste facilities this weekend as many people are preparing their homes for the possibility of a cyclone forming next week.

For more information, and the full list of items that can be dropped off for free, visit our Transfer Stations & Landfill page.