FLOOD WATCH CONTINUES: Highway to Cairns destroyed, Supermarket chaos, drinking water and sewage concerns, BOM updates.

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Jamie Jansen

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Severe flooding on Front Street in Mossman. Picture: Harry Morwood

After a devastating day of flooding yesterday, Newsport will stay focused on keeping you informed with live updates and ongoing challenges faced by the Douglas Shire. Please contact us via Newsport Facebook or [email protected] if you have any information.

Update 4.15pm - Monday 18 December

Locals living at 990 Mossman Daintree Road have graciously opened their doors to provide charging for devices, fill water containers, offer a cup of tea, or allow access to a hot shower for anyone in need.

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Update 2.30pm - Monday 18 December

 Dire situation North of Mossman

Images captured by Charmaine Norris and shared on Facebook reveal the severity of the situation north of Mossman. The photographs depict the Daintree ferry ticket booth being swept away.

Authorities have called upon local residents Charmaine and Chris Norris to assist in rescue efforts. The SES (State Emergency Service) is operating under extreme stress, with reports indicating that individuals had to be rescued from their rooftops.

 

Ferry tool booth being washed away towards the river. Picture: Charmain Norris
The water level near crossroads cafe. Picture: Charmain Norris

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Update 1.00pm - Monday 18 December

In a move to facilitate travel between Cairns and Port Douglas, Reef Unlimited and Norman Reef Fishing have announced the revival of ferry services, offering a much-needed lifeline to the communities.

Ferry services announcements

Reef Unlimited has just announced the initiation of a ferry service from Cairns to Port Douglas on Tuesday, December 19. Here are the departure details:

  • Cairns Marlin Marina: 9:30 am
  • Port Douglas Crystalbrook Marina: 1:30 pm

Due to limited spaces, reservations are crucial, with each seat priced at $50 per person. To secure your spot, call 1300031411.

Adding to the ferry options, Norman Reef Fishing has secured approval to travel from Port Douglas to Cairns and back. Their inaugural charter is slated for departure on Tuesday, December 19, setting sail at 8:00 am and returning from Cairns at 2:00 pm.

For bookings and inquiries regarding Norman Reef Fishing's charter, individuals can reach out by calling 0419015262.

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Update 12.30pm - Monday 18 December

Dragon Lady charters to Cairns pending sufficient interest

Dragon Lady Fishing Charters has announced on Facebook the possibility of chartering to Cairns if enough people are interested. For details and interest call 0429372466.

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Update 11.45am - Monday 18 December

Quicksilver Port Douglas contemplates ferry service to Cairns

In a recent announcement, Quicksilver Port Douglas is considering the initiation of a ferry service between Port Douglas and Cairns in the upcoming days. The company has disclosed that discussions have been underway with emergency services regarding this potential service. However, it's important to note that, for the time being, they are not actively seeking to deploy their services immediately, prioritising support for the Defence Force in the short term. 

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Update 11.15am - Monday 15 December

Mossman Mount Molloy Road: Bushy Creek flooded

While Newsport awaits official confirmation regarding the accessibility of the road leading through Julatten and Molloy to Mareeba, local reports on Facebook indicate that the Mossman Mt Molloy Road, particularly near Bushy Creek, is currently flooded. A photo accompanying the reports visually depicts the extent of the flooding. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.

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Bushy Creek flooded. Picture: Norton Weir

Update 11.00am - Monday 18 December

Mossman - Port Douglas Road: Open but under repair

Reports from locals on Facebook confirm that the road connecting Mossman to Port Douglas is accessible, although with significant potholes and road damage. Repair work is underway, and currently, only one lane is open for traffic. Exercise caution and be mindful of ongoing repairs when using this route.

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The road is currently undergoing repairs with noticeable damage, resulting in only one lane being open for traffic. Image captured by Storm Sim.

Update 10.30am - Monday 18 December

Water sewage problems

The Douglas Shire Council's water reticulation team is currently on standby, awaiting a decrease in floodwaters before addressing the damaged pipes causing water disruptions in Mossman, Cooya, and Newell.

Councillor Abigail Noli emphasised on her Facebook page that the intake is obstructed and requires clearance. Subsequently, attention will be directed towards repairing the breakage in the reticulation system in Mossman. Residents are urged by the Douglas Shire Council to use water sensibly during this challenging period.

Crocodile sighted navigating flooded streets in Ingham

A crocodile has been spotted floating through the main street of Ingham. A reminder to all Douglas residents that the unpredictable movement of crodoidle during flooding is extremely dangerous.

QFES emergency alert Mossman

An Emergency Alert (Watch and Act) has been issued for Mossman from Douglas Shire Council as of 9.20am today.

Council advises heavy rainfall will continue today with potential for localised flooding. Mossman has no power or water. If you are in a safe place, remain there until this rain event passes. Emergency services may not be able to assist you.

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Update 9.30am - Monday 18 December

Supermarket chaos

Locals and visitors (who are now likely stranded in the region) find themselves facing extensive queues, some stretching up to 50 meters, as they wait for checkouts at Coles and Cornett’s IGA in Port Douglas. Reports indicate that Woolworths in Mossman is currently closed.

Shoppers are rapidly depleting the shelves of essential items such as meat, pasta, and canned goods, with fresh produce running out last night. The region anticipates delays in supplies, heightening concerns for the availability of basic necessities.

Newsport has requested updates from several government services regarding estimated timeframes for the recovery and reopening of the Captain Cook Highway. An update on this matter will be provided shortly.

From the footage published last night on Newsport Facebook this is like to be days if not weeks. 

Additionally, Newsport is awaiting crucial updates on the condition of roads leading through Julatten and Molloy to Mareeba.

Land slide on Rex Range. Picture: Supplied

 

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