February 7, 2013

The Darling Downs Recovery and Resilience Team which has been helping people recover from the 2010/2011 floods will extend their work through to June this year following the recent flood disaster in the region.

Team Leader Geoff Argus said the temporary team was due to cease operations next month but in the wake of the Australia Day weekend floods, the Darling Downs Hospital and Health Service had decided to continue this vital work.

“In 2011 our specialist mental health disaster and counselling team assisted flood affected communities in Toowoomba and the Lockyer Valley,” Mr Argus said.

“Since 2012, with the changes of Health Service boundaries, we have been focussed on Southern Downs, Western Downs and South Burnett who have been hit hard again in January this year.

“The West Moreton Recovery and Resilience Team are looking after the Lockyer Valley.

“We provide emotional and psychological support, psychological first aid and counselling, where necessary. We also work with local agencies to build community resilience and the capacity to respond to future adverse events.

“Whilst most people are extremely resilient in crises such as these, distress is an understandable, normal and expected response to extreme and destructive weather events, whether you are directly impacted by the floods or are concerned about family and friends who may be affected.

“In addition, feelings and memories related to previous experiences of disasters or other grief and loss may also resurface.

“The most important thing to remember is that you, your family and your community are not alone and support is available.”