Experienced local leads recovery for western Queensland floods

The Queensland Government has appointed highly experienced local grazier Stuart Mackenzie OAM to lead recovery in flood stricken western Queensland.  

The newly minted State Recovery Coordinator has spent a lifetime contributing to the west both as a farmer and former councillor and mayor of Quilpie Shire, making him ideally suited to the role. 

His service to the community also includes stints as chair of the Outback Queensland Tourism Association and founder of not-for-profit charity Outback Gondwana Foundation.

In announcing Mr Mackenzie as State Recovery Coordinator, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli acknowledged the importance of local knowledge and understanding the unique needs of the region.

Also overseeing recovery efforts will be Queensland Police Service Chief Superintendent, Emergency Management and Coordination Command, Troy Pukallus who will stand as Deputy State Recovery Coordinator for the western Queensland disaster event.

With more than 30 years of policing experience, including leading the Rural and Stock Crime Squad, Chief Superintendent Pukallus brings a wealth of knowledge to the role.

Queensland's newest State Recovery Coordinators will work closely with the Queensland Reconstruction Authority to ensure no patch of dirt is left unseen following the once-in-a-generation flooding.

They will assist the recovery operations of all impacted councils and help lead the development of a State Recovery and Resilience Plan that will guide statewide recovery following one of the most destructive and expansive disaster seasons in Queensland's history.

Mr Mackenzie said during his tenure he will be working to support fulsome recovery by maximising the efforts of local, district and state disaster management groups.

“This flood event has greatly affected communities in north and western Queensland, and while they are resilient and determined people the recovery will undoubtedly prove challenging,” Mr Mackenzie said. 

“My focus remains on making the recovery process as easy as possible for those who have been impacted, and I look forward to delivering this alongside the Premier, the Queensland Reconstruction Authority, and importantly local stakeholders.” 

Under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), a wide range of financial assistance has been made available to local governments, residents, primary producers, small businesses, and not-for-profits.

To be directed to the most approprate support, western Queenslanders can visit www.disaster.qld.gov.au or phone the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.