Communities cut off by floodwater to remain isolated for days

He confirmed the remainder of the small community would be evacuated today, following days of relentless rain.

About 35 communities across the region remain isolated by floodwaters.

Deputy Commissioner Chelepy said authorities have been in contact with residents cut off, particularly in the Daintree Rainforest.

“The Daintree is still cut off and it has significant water flow through it,” he said.

“Those areas north of the Daintree, like Wonga Beach, Daintree Village, Cow Bay and the small communities up there will remain isolated for a number of days.

“The local council and disaster management groups are commencing resupply and we started that yesterday.

“We are in contact with the Commonwealth and ADF today to seek support and assistance coming into those small remote communities to assist with the clean-up and restoration of power and water.”

It comes as the search continues for a 85-year-old man missing in Degarra, a town near Wujal Wujal.

Deputy Commissioner Chelepy said the man had been missing since Sunday night, confirming his property had been destroyed by the floods.

He said crews had “grave concerns” for his welfare.

“Our crews on the ground are working tirelessly to search through flood waters and on land to locate this man who remains unaccounted for,” Deputy Commissioner Chelepy said.

“The conditions are difficult due to flooding and debris, however search efforts will continue as waters begin to recede.

“We now have grave concerns for his welfare, and we urge anyone who knows anything which could assist us to please contact police immediately.”

Disaster recovery payments to help

The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment and Disaster Recovery Allowance was announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese yesterday.

Applications for the payments will open at 2pm (AEST) for those directly impacted by the devastating floods.

A one-off payment of $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child will be available for those who have suffered a serious injury or have a severely damaged or destroyed home as a result of the flooding.

Queensland Premier Steven Miles announced the state government had also made a $1.5 million donation to a flood appeal.

The appeal will be run by a range of “trusted charities” to ensure its given to people who need it the most.

“We have contributed $1.5 million initially (and) contributing to this appeal is something that is really practical and will make a massive difference,” he said.