Following the Christmas evacuation of Daly River residents from their community, Commissioner of Police Reece Kershaw and Director of NTES Andy Warton flew to the region today to thank Police and Emergency Services volunteers for their contribution to the successful operation.
Commissioner Kershaw praised everyone involved in the evacuation as well as those PFES staff and volunteers now in the township ensuring the safety of homes and animals.
"We are still in the middle of a once-in-20 year weather event, and everyone is very aware that the emergency is far from over.
"Although today the river level has fallen from its peak on 26 December, there is a real risk it will again rise to an even higher level than already seen.
"The quick action of Police and NTES staff and volunteers ensured the evacuation ran without a hitch, making a real contribution to saving lives.
"To everyone involved in this complex, fast-moving logistical operation I extend my sincere thanks.
"We are well used to dealing with everything Mother Nature throws at us. But on this occasion when most Australians look forward to spending time with family and friends, many PFES members were selflessly sacrificing their holidays to aid and assist our fellow Territorians."
Andy Warton added: "I am particularly proud of our incredible NTES volunteers who dropped everything to help. We have members in Daly River right now braced for the next rise in river level doing everything to keep the township safe and secure.
"They are a credit to themselves, their community, and to the Territory as a whole."
While the Top End is slowly drying out, the tropical low has moved south and significant rainfall is expected into the Simpson region in coming days.
“There is still plenty of water about and we do have a number of road closures in effect,” Region 2 Controller Commander Bruce Porter said.
These include:
- Stuart Highway between Mataranka and Elliott
- Victoria Highway between Timber Creek and the Western Australia border
- Buntine Highway at Armstrong River
“I continue to ask drivers to check the Road Report through Secure NT before they set out; if you do decide to travel please ensure you have adequate supplies.”
For assistance, call the Police Assistance Line 131 444 or 000 in an emergency.
The NTES Emergency Assistance line is 132 500.
Stay up to date on www.securent.nt.gov.au
Latest weather updates on www.bom.gov.au
Flood information is available on 1800 500 700.
