News - Bega Merimbula Eden Bermagui Tathra Pambula

Road Closure Information - 19-2-2010 Bega Valley Shire

date:19-2-2010, 9.00am

This is the final situation report.

All major roads are open, some minor roads are still closed. And when possible those minor roads will be opened. But Upper Cobargo Road will remain closed at Double Creek Bridge (Paddy Otton’s Bridge)

Thanks

Jenny Cullen

16 February 2010

Constance welcomes belated natural disaster declaration

Member for Bega, Andrew Constance, has welcomed today’s belated natural disaster declaration, following heavy rains which have caused extensive damage to the region.

Speaking during a tour of flood damage with Melinda Pavey MLC, NSW Shadow Minister for Emergency Services, Mr Constance called on the government to ensure prompt consideration and payment of all applications for assistance.

“We have seen some of the heaviest rain in more than ten years, and while this is very welcome, its impact on some households and local infrastructure has been devastating,” Mr Constance said.

“There has been significant damage to property, roads, bridges and other essential infrastructure which needs to be rectified as a matter of urgency.” Under current NSW Natural Disaster Relief Arrangements, funding is now available in the following categories:

* Personal Hardship and Distress Assistance - disaster relief grants to eligible individuals and families whose homes and essential household items have been destroyed or damaged by a natural disaster.

* Primary Producers - Loans of up to $130,000 are available at a concessional interest rate for those in urgent need to meet carry-on requirements and the replacement and repair of damage not covered by insurance. Transport freight subsidies of up to 50 per cent on the carriage of livestock and fodder are also available to help primary producers.

* Small business - Loans of up to $130,000 are available at a concessional rate to small businesses affected by disasters and which meet certain eligibility criteria.

This finance is available to those unable to obtain assistance through normal channels.

Mrs Pavey said that with damage to local roads and bridges estimated at more than $4 million, grants are also available for councils to restore essential services and to permanently restore roads and bridges to pre-disaster standards.

“Churches, voluntary non-profit organisations and sporting clubs can also apply for assistance in meeting the costs of restoration of essential facilities that have been damaged or destroyed,” Mrs Pavey said.

Mrs Pavey also paid tribute to the many SES volunteers who have worked tirelessly since the rain started falling.

Mr Constance said he would be using next week’s resumption of Parliament to raise concerns over the timing of the opening of coastal estuaries particularly around Dalmeny and Corunna during the downpour.

Mr Constance also reminded residents on the Bemboka, Bega, Kalaru and Tathra water supply systems to boil drinking water until further notice.