Queensland Reconstruction Authority CEO Visits Goondiwindi to Discuss

Published on 25 September 2024

Goondiwindi Regional Council is pleased to announce that Major General Jake Ellwood (retired), Chief Executive Officer of the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA), has visited our region today. Major General Ellwood's visit, at Council's invitation, was an opportunity to discuss flood mitigation strategies and the preparedness initiatives Council has been undertaking in preparation for the next flood.

Major General Ellwood met with the Mayor, Councillors, Council staff, and community representatives to gain firsthand insights into the region's challenges and preparedness.

A key focus of the discussions was the flood modelling that Council has been undertaking in Goondiwindi and Inglewood. This data will inform future planning and decision-making, ensuring the region is better prepared for future flood events.

Council also briefed Major General Ellwood on the significant works undertaken since the last floods, including the Inglewood 2021 floods, which triggered an evacuation of the town. These works include the construction of a new Inglewood assembly point, amendments to zoning to limit the impact on individual properties while maintaining practical solutions, and improvements to water and sewerage infrastructure to support residents' capacity to shelter in place during future flood events.

Furthermore, Council updated Major General Ellwood on our plans for further strengthening the Goondiwindi levee bank, which has protected the town from flooding for nearly 70 years. This vital infrastructure is crucial in safeguarding the community and its assets.

Mayor, the Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM, expressed his gratitude for Major General Ellwood's visit and the QRA's ongoing support. "We are committed to building a prepared region, and the partnership with the QRA is essential to achieving this goal," Mayor Springborg said.