Residents return home after flood recovery
Imangara residents in the NT have returned home this week after flooding in late February forced them to evacuate.
As floodwaters receded, contractors and NT Government staff have been on site to restore homes, repair community infrastructure and make key facilities safe, including the school and other community buildings and areas.
The airstrip has re-opened, the store has been restocked with perishables, fuel has been delivered, and school staff have returned to prepare for classes.
The Department of Logistics and Infrastructure has arranged transport to support the return of residents from Ali Curung to Murray Downs.
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Community Development, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Member for Barkly, Steve Edgington, said residents returned home over Wednesday and Thursday.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Steve Edgington with returning residents.
“This is a significant milestone for the community and for everyone who has worked so hard to make this possible,” he said.
“A huge thank you to frontline services, Territory staff, local contractors, emergency partners, and the Murray Downs Station team for their hard work on the ground from response through to recovery.
“This has been a coordinated and practical recovery effort focused on getting homes, community facilities and services back to a safe and functioning condition.
“The airstrip is open, the store is stocked, the school is reopening, and support is in place for residents as they move back into the community.
“While road remediation will continue, it is fantastic to see residents returning home this week and to celebrate that progress together at Friday’s community barbeque.
“We’re working to rebuild communities quickly and get people home safely.”
Immediate Relief Payments will also be finalised, with payment cards to be issued to tenants on their return to Murray Downs yesterday.
Families whose homes sustained damage to essential household items such as furniture and whitegoods will be supported through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements Category A assistance, subject to eligibility.
