Queensland power workers are mobilising and some crews are already on the road assessing the damage from Tropical Cyclone Debbie but flooding and closed roads is causing access issues for crews.
Energy Minister Mark Bailey thanked the community for their resilience and patience in the aftermath of the cyclone while energy workers work as quickly as possible to restore power.
“The cyclone wreaked havoc on our road network with flooding, debris and fallen powerlines cutting access to communities,” Mr Bailey said.
“This means crews can’t get into some areas as quick as they’d like to restore power.
“Some areas south of Mackay and south of Bowen remain cut off due to flooding, however Powerlink and Energy Queensland have begun helicopter patrols of lines and major assets.
“Powerlink has commenced an aerial inspection of the 90km Proserpine – Collinsville transmission line while another crew is inspecting the substation and undertaking re-energisation checks.
“Around 900 Queensland energy workers from Ergon, Energex and contractors are available and 150 crew from Essential Energy (NSW) are mobilising to assist the response effort.
“Energy Queensland has 125 generators available, four high voltage units, and three mobile substations to assist with the restoration of power.
“There are currently has 61,000 customers without supply (as at 2:00 pm), mostly in the Whitsunday and Mackay area in the communities of Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Proserpine, Bowen, Mackay, West Mackay, Sarina, Moranbah and Clermont and the Northern Beaches of Mackay.”
There have been some power restorations including the Home Hill township, parts of Moranbah including the airport and the Burdekin Water Treatment Plant.
Generator Safety Warning
Mr Bailey urged residents using generators during outages to follow all safety instructions.
“Using a generator to supplement domestic electricity during a power outage carries dangers of poisoning from carbon monoxide gases, fire and electrocution.
“Generators should never be used inside. This includes inside a garage, carport, basement, crawlspace, or other enclosed or partially enclosed area, even with ventilation”
“Even if doors and windows are opened, this will not prevent carbon monoxide building up in the home.
“Customers also need to make sure they place the generator well away from open windows, doors and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to travel indoors.
“We also cannot stress strongly enough, to not connect any generating equipment to fixed house wiring or Ergon Energy equipment unless the work has been done by a licensed electrician or authorised Ergon Energy representative.”
Powerline Safety Warning
Mr Bailey also reiterated the important message to never touch fallen powerlines.
“Everyone must please keep safety at the very front of their mind after any severe weather event because it’s likely there will be fallen powerlines,” he said.
For more information visit Ergon’s Storm Centre.
