Get disaster ready at Caneland Central

On Saturday, November 4, council will hold Disaster Ready Saturday at Caneland Central from 9am to 1pm, outside Target.

Mayor Greg Williamson said more and more we were faced with the threat of bushfires, floods, storms and extreme heat, as well as cyclones.

“We’ve changed the name of this event from previous years as natural disasters can happen to anyone, anywhere,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It’s crucial that, as a community, each and every one of us takes the time to prepare our homes, properties and families,” he said.

“Disaster season is already rearing its head in our region, with active fires at Koumala and Farleigh and the first cyclone of the season forming near Vanuatu.

“Disasters, such as floods, fires and cyclones, require different methods of action and preparedness.

“People need to have a number of survival plans in place to know what they are going to do in the event of a disaster striking.”

Mayor Williamson said even though the name had changed, Disaster Ready Saturday would still feature a diverse range of emergency experts and agencies for residents to speak with.

“Council’s Emergency Management Team, State Emergency Services, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, Queensland Police Service, Mackay Hospital and Health Service, RACQ CQ Rescue, Red Cross and more, will all be available,” Mayor Williamson said.

“And just like previous years, hundreds of bags filled with vital emergency information will be handed out as part of this community event,” he said.

Anyone who attends Disaster Ready Saturday can go into the draw to win a Honda generator thanks to Mackay Outdoor Power Centre. Simply fill out a quick survey on the day, or online at www.connectingmackay.com.au/disaster-ready from Monday (October 30), to win.