White Patch road and water update: March 2

Published 9:31am 2 March 2022

Water is back on at White Patch and a temporary roadway reconnecting residents with the rest of Bribie Island is likely to be completed by tomorrow night.

Unitywater announced temporary water supplies were connected early this morning and a community engagement officer will be stationed at 118 White Patch Esplanade to answer questions from residents.

“Our crews have been working all day yesterday and last night through some challenging conditions with rising tides and groundwater and the temporary water supply is now complete,” a Unitywater spokesperson says.

Meanwhile, a road crew from Moreton Bay Regional Council took advantage of low tide yesterday to make significant progress on the temporary road after the esplanade was washed away by torrential rain.

Joint effort

Mayor Peter Flannery says Council’s team has pulled together with Unitywater, Volunteer Marine Rescue Bribie Island, the SES, police and NBN to make massive headway.

“It’s been an amazing effort, and I couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve achieved,” Mayor Flannery says.

“Our road crew has taken advantage of the low tide to blitz the operation to construct a temporary roadway across the water, after it was obliterated during the storms.

“They’ve bridged the other side of the water after working tirelessly to lay the foundations, and we’re on-track to reopen to cars and pedestrians Thursday evening.

Grocery deliveries

Volunteer Marine Rescue Bribie Island has delivered groceries and medication to residents and plans are in the works to keep supplies coming.

“We are also working on a plan for locals to be able to order through Bongaree Woolworths tomorrow, which can be collected by Bribie VMR and transported back to White Patch,” Mayor Flannery says.

“This is only for those with emergency needs, and only non-perishable items can be ordered for food safety reasons. If you do not have internet access, seek assistance from one of your neighbours.”

Division 1 Councillor Brooke Savige paid tribute to the residents of White Patch, who are continuing to band together to get through the emergency.

“Everywhere you look, there are acts of kindness, and I would expect nothing less of this wonderful community,” Cr Savige says.

“From the community champions like Sarah Gould making her home available for water deliveries, to those who came down to collect groceries for others, and checking in on their neighbours, it’s heartening to see.”

For more information email [email protected]

For urgent Council issues phone 3205 0555 or 1300 477 161. In an emergency phone Triple zero (000).