Come along and Get Ready, Lockyer!

Lockyer Valley Regional Council is gearing up to host our Get Ready Lockyer Day to help the community be prepared and cope with disaster events – and you’re invited to come along!

Residents are encouraged to mark Sunday, 4 August 2024 in their calendars now for the opportunity to talk with Council, emergency services and other agencies to understand local hazards, their impact and what can be done to Get Ready.

Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor and Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, Cr Tanya Milligan said it is vital the community get prepared now.

“The Lockyer Valley knows the impacts of natural disasters all too well.

“It’s important to have an emergency plan that suits your family and property well before a storm, flood, bushfire or other emergency.

“The perfect time to start thinking about being prepared is now - you don’t want to be making tough decisions under pressure.

“Experience and research show people and communities that are well prepared before a disaster are more resilient and able to recover faster.

“We are encouraging residents to consider just how they would be impacted by an extreme weather event, plan to ensure their safety, and pack supplies so they’re prepared.

“Having a Household Emergency Plan is one of the most effective ways to ensure everyone knows where to go and what to do in an emergency.

“The plans we make before a disaster strikes really do make all the difference during an event,” Mayor Milligan said.

There will be something for everyone on the day, including:

• Giveaways for your emergency kit;
• Walk over our giant map of the region;
• Meet your local emergency services personnel and volunteers;
• Check out your property on Council’s Flood Information Portal and your property flood risk;
• Talk with the Rural Fire Service about the bushfire risk in your area and to your property;
• Find out how to fill and lay sandbags correctly; and
• Activities for the kids with games, storytelling and their own bag to colour and take home.

Come along for your chance to win prizes that will help you get ready, including a portable generator, fuel cards and starter emergency kits.

With plenty of activities for all ages, including a kitchen fire demonstration from the Queensland Fire Emergency Services, make sure to catch their mascot Blazer and SES mascot Paddy, as well as the Queensland Police Service Dog Squad puppies from the development program.

Youngsters can enjoy the giant Get Ready games and Birdie's tree activities. Talk a walk through the Lockyer Valley at our 'Big Map', listen to one of the workshops by local agencies, watch a sandbagging demonstration or have a look at the new video series to learn what other locals have done to be disaster ready - there is something for everyone.

WHAT: Get Ready Lockyer Day

WHERE: Ferrari Park, Laidley

WHEN: Sunday 4 August, 10am – 2pm

For more information about the day, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/getreadylockyer-2024