Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington at the Sandy Creek crossing on Brown Street, Nanango, where a man was washed to his death on July 22 (Photo: Nanango Electorate Office)

August 17, 2022

Local MP Deb Frecklington has written to South Burnett mayor Brett Otto calling for safety improvements on Brown Street in Nanango following the tragic loss of life in the recent flash floods.

The Member for Nanango said she had been approached by a local resident who suggested several safety measures which could be introduced at the dangerous location.

“Brown Street is a well-known detour through Nanango for people using the D’Aguilar Highway, however, it is prone to flash flooding from Sandy Creek,” Mrs Frecklington said.

Mrs Frecklington said the creek rose rapidly in the early hours of July 22.

“It was very difficult to see that the flash flooding had completely blocked the road,” she said.

“Sadly, this resulted in the tragedy which occurred, and I offer my sincere condolences to the family. There were also several other near-misses at this location.

“I have written to the South Burnett Regional Council asking for their consideration of installing a guard rail on the northern side of the Brown Street Sandy Creek crossing, street lighting at this location, and raising the road with larger culverts to replace the current small drainage pipe.”

In her letter, Mrs Frecklington highlighted Council’s recent announcement of $250,000 for upgrades to Tipperary Flat.

“I also note that Council has announced $250,000 for upgrades to Tipperary Flat, which is adjacent to Brown Street and this flash-flooding location,” she wrote.

“It seems appropriate that the improvements that have been proposed could be included in this project.

“On behalf of the Nanango community, I request consideration of these suggestions by South Burnett Regional Council, in order to improve safety in times of flash flooding in Nanango.

“I ask that you give this matter timely and due regard.”

southburnett.com.au has approached the SBRC for comment.


 

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