More ADF support for flood-hit areas
About 310 ADF personnel are now involved in Operation Flood Assist 22-2 as part of the Australian Government’s response to flooding in Victoria and NSW.
CAPTION: Members from the ADF’s Army Logistic Training Centre conduct sandbagging activities in support of the local community in Shepparton, Victoria. Story by Sergeant Matthew Bickerton. Photo by Corporal Jonathan Goedhart.
In Victoria, about 280 personnel and high clearance vehicles are supporting flood-affected residents in the Echuca, Rochester, Bendigo and Shepparton areas.
Six ADF personnel are seconded to the State Coordination Centre to assist with planning and logistics.
Two CH-47 helicopters and about 30 personnel are assisting with the evacuation and relocation of communities, lifting and moving heavy equipment, provision and resupply of essential food supplies to isolated communities, and provision of feed and fodder for livestock.
Tasks have included: filling and distributing sandbags, transport support to isolated families and emergency services stakeholders with high-clearance vehicles, diversion of water from a small dam and construction of three levees, door knocking to support flood-affected residents, and clean-up activities.
In NSW, a helicopter is available for night search and rescue flights, and about 100 personnel are on standby to provide support.
The ADF remains postured to provide additional support to State Emergency Services should a request be received via National Emergency Management Australia.
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