MIN 30/97 Tuesday, February 4, 1997

AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE PROVIDES FLOOD RELIEF

The Australian Defence Force will provide flood relief assistance to the isolated Charleville area in south-west Queensland.

The Minister for Defence, Mr McLachlan, approved an assistance package overnight after the Queensland Government declared Charleville a disaster area and requested Commonwealth assistance through Emergency Management Australia.

Two C130 Hercules transport aircraft from RAAF Base Richmond in New South Wales are expected to arrive in the area this afternoon with emergency supplies including tents, 800 blankets and 400 camp stretchers. The aircraft will also transport a portable field kitchen capable of providing 3000 meals a day.

Mr McLachlan said Queensland authorities were monitoring the situation and more support might be necessary.

About 240 residents have been moved to higher ground as the flooded Warrego River continues to inundate the Charleville area. Road and rail access has also been cut.

Further information:

Brian Alsop 047-397337 (B/H)