GREAT Lakes Council is confident the local government area’s post-storm needs will be addressed in the Hunter recovery plan following Brigadier Darren Naumann’s visit last Monday.
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‘‘It was pleasing to welcome Brigadier Naumann to our region,’’ said Andrew Blatch, the council’s local emergency management officer.
‘‘I was impressed with his dedication in assisting the affected councils recover and learn from the recent storm events.
‘‘After speaking with the brigadier, we are confident the particular needs of the Great Lakes will be added to the recovery action plan agenda.’’
Brigadier Naumann is leading the Hunter and Central Coast’s April storm and flood recovery effort.
The brigadier, along with Port Stephens MP Kate Washington, visited Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest on May 18 to talk with residents and council staff and visit the worst-hit areas, including Jimmys Beach.
Following his visit, Brigadier Naumann chaired the third weekly regional recovery committee meeting.
Held in Thornton on May 20, the meeting included general managers from 10 councils in the natural disaster declared zones, including the Great Lakes.
The general managers were joined by representatives from WorkCover, Roads and Maritime Services, Environmental Protection Authority, NSW Health and Department of Primary Industries, as well as stakeholders from farming, fishing, business and welfare groups.
The committee will put together an action plan to guide the area’s recovery efforts and identify major issues and needs.
Brigadier Naumann said the recovery was progressing well.
‘‘I would like to congratulate all of the councils for rallying together and getting on with the job of cleaning up their backyards,’’ he said.
‘‘There’s still an enormous amount to do, particularly removing and disposing of green waste, but I have been impressed with the recovery effort so far.’’