Media Statements

Spring into action and Get Ready, Ipswich

01 September 2023

Spring has arrived which means longer days, gardens in full bloom – and time to Get Ready for the summer season ahead.

Ipswich City Council Environment and Sustainability Committee Chairperson Deputy Mayor Russell Milligan said the upcoming Get Ready Queensland Week, from 9 to 15 October, is a reminder for all Ipswich residents to prepare for severe weather and potential disasters.

“We all have a role to play in preparing for emergencies and natural disasters – including floods, fires, storms, or any other event that can disrupt and cause damage,” Deputy Mayor Milligan said.

“Queensland may be the sunshine state, but we are also home to the highest frequency of disasters nationally.

“As we head into another bushfire and storm season, it is critical that we all prepare and be ready to respond.

“Council is here to help, with pop-up information stands scheduled throughout the city from 7 September through to 21 October.

“From shopping centres and school libraries to the Seniors Expo and Ipswich Sustainable Living Festival, there are more than 20 opportunities across Ipswich for residents and businesses to speak with council officers on how best to prepare for disasters.

“I encourage everyone to keep an eye on council’s social media for details on a session near you.”

Deputy Mayor Milligan said last year’s devastating floods were still fresh in everyone’s memories.

“Ipswich suffered significant damage in the 2022 floods, with impacts to homes, businesses and roads resulting in more than $20 million in infrastructure and recovery works so far,” he said.

“Council is rebuilding with future flood resilience in mind as we prepare for increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events in our region.

“As we continue to rebuild from what has been, it is critical that we don’t forget to look ahead and prepare for what’s to come.

“I strongly urge everyone to take steps now to make a household emergency plan, create an emergency kit, and prepare your home through activities such as clearing gutters and pruning trees.”

There are three key steps to Get Ready this disaster season:

1. Understand how you and your home might be impacted
2. Make an action plan and write it down
3. Pack an emergency kit of essential supplies.

For more information visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au/getready

Visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au/explore/whats-on or view the table below for the latest schedule of Get Ready events across Ipswich.