Council encourages everyone to Get Ready!

Mayor Greg Williamson said council was urging all residents to take the time now to prepare for disaster season.

“When it comes to disasters, Mackay has had them all – floods, bushfires, heatwaves and cyclones. Severe weather patterns are all part of living in a tropical paradise,” Mayor Williamson said.

“However, history has shown us that our best defence is preparedness. We don’t want residents to be alarmed – just prepared,” he said.

“We really want to make sure residents know the five “knows” for evacuating: know when to go, know where to go, know how to move, know what to take and know your neighbours.”

Residents are encouraged to keep informed on a variety of hazards and topics via council’s Facebook page.

They can also go to council’s Emergency Dashboard and opt in to receive text messages and email notifications of Emergency Alerts and weather warnings in our region.

“This is such an important way for residents to keep updated,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Don’t wait for a disaster to be on our doorstep, sign up today!”

Part of the campaign is also a photo competition where you can win a Makita bluetooth radio, including two 18V batteries and charger.

Residents can enter by sending in a photo showing how their household is preparing. To enter go to www.mackay.qld.gov.au/getreadymackay