Huge leaps in mission to reconnect Bribie Island community
Published 01 March 2022
Vital medical supplies and urgent groceries have been delivered, and the foundations of a temporary roadway laid in just 24 hours, as the mission to reconnect and resupply the White Patch community continues.
Mayor Peter Flannery said Council’s team had pulled together with agencies Unitywater, Volunteer Marine Rescue Bribie Island, the SES, QPS and NBN to make massive headway.
“It’s been an amazing effort, and I couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve achieved,” Mayor Flannery said.
“Our road crew has taken advantage of the low tide to blitz the operation to construct a temporary roadway across the water, after it was obliterated during the storms.
“They’ve bridged the other side of the water after working tirelessly to lay the foundations, and we’re on-track to reopen to cars and pedestrians Thursday evening.
“Our friends at VMR Bribie Island have delivered groceries ordered by residents in urgent need through Council’s call centre, after Bongaree Woolworths fast-tracked the picking and packing for us.
“They also took over some urgently needed medication, and we’ve organised transport first-thing tomorrow for an urgent medical appointment, with the team also in touch with others needing the same.
“We are also working on a plan for locals to be able to order through Bongaree Woolworths tomorrow, which can be collected by Bribie VMR and transported back to White Patch.
“This is only for those with emergency needs, and only non-perishable items can be ordered for food safety reasons. If you do not have internet access, seek assistance from one of your neighbours.
“For medication needs - place your script order at your regular chemist and organise to have these delivered to Bribie VMR at 4 Marine Parade Bellara for transport.
“Unitywater has done a marvellous job, working to have their temporary water supply established by tomorrow. They delivered another 540L of bottled water today and will have community engagement representatives on site tomorrow.
“These storms have caused such catastrophic damage, and while the clean-up has begun, there’s a long road ahead. I am just so impressed that our team has done so much in 24 hours, and I know they’re not putting the brakes on any time soon.”
Division 1 Councillor Brooke Savige also paid tribute to the residents of White Patch, who are continuing to band together to get through the emergency.
“Everywhere you look, there are acts of kindness, and I would expect nothing less of this wonderful community,” Cr Savige said.
“From the community champions like Sarah Gould making her home available for water deliveries, to those who came down to collect groceries for others, and checking in on their neighbours, it’s heartening to see.
“These last few days have been so tough, but I know this resilient community can get through it. Thank you so much to each and every one of you!”
For any other enquiries please email them to WhitePatchSupport@moretonbay.qld.gov.au
For urgent Council issues phone (07) 3205 0555 or 1300 477 161. In an emergency, please call Triple-Zero 000