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Northe Raises Local Floods In Parliament Nationals Member for Morwell Russell Northe raised his concerns today in Parliament on the damage the current floods have caused in the Latrobe Valley.
By Russel Northe - 8th June 2012 - Back to News "The floods this week have created havoc and many homes and properties have unfortunately been impacted," said Mr Northe.
"I understand at least 12 homes have sustained water inundation and of course many others properties have received damage to assets such as vehicles, sheds and garages.
"In addition, a number of significant community and sporting facilities bore the brunt of these floods, including The Traralgon Tennis Complex, Agnes Brereton Reserve, and Harold Preston Reserve.
"These and other community reserves host a number of sporting and recreation pursuits including netball, cricket, football, soccer and athletics. The Traralgon Recreation Reserve which incorporates the Traralgon Men’s Shed and the Traralgon Agricultural Society also sustained substantial flood damage."
Mr Northe praised the efforts of emergency services personnel and volunteers who assisted in response and recovery.
"Our local SES and CFA crews are absolutely sensational in incredibly difficult circumstances and the feedback from our local community is one of respect and admiration.
"Of course these teams are ably supported by the Victoria Police, Department of Human Services, Vic Roads, Latrobe City Council and other Government and community agencies such as Red Cross.
"The Municipal Emergency Coordination Centre also plays an important role with its multi-agency approach to such events, as do the relief centres and I understand a number of locals have registered at the relief centre seeking support and assistance.
"On behalf of the Gippsland community, I say a big thank you to all involved, it is certainly appreciated."
Mr Northe reminded community members that emergency flood assistance grants have been activated for those who have been affected.
"The Personal Hardship Assistance Program provides eligible households with relief assistance payments of up to $1,200 to assist with emergency shelter, food, clothing or personal items," said Mr Northe.
"Further to this the provision of emergency re-establishment assistant funding of up to $30,000 for eligible persons in extreme hardship is able to be used for the purposes of clean up, emergency accommodation, repairs and rebuilding.
Victorians seeking emergency support, including advice about possible financial assistance, should contact their local council. Information about the Personal Hardship Assistance Program is also available at www.dhs.vic.gov.au/emergency
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
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