USQ assists flood affected community

USQ has escaped relatively undamaged following a disastrous flash flood that hit Toowoomba and areas of the Darling Downs this week (10 January).

Acting Vice Chancellor Professor Graham Baker said that while some buildings sustained some water damage the University’s priority is the care and welfare of its staff and students.

Professor Baker said at this stage the flash floods left a wake of devastation that is unparalleled in our times on the Darling Downs. The full picture of these dire circumstances is only just being realised as the day unfolds.

'We also know that more heavy rain is forecast for today,' he said.

The University has told its staff not to venture into work while the flood situation is still critical and has assembled a team of people to provide whatever assistance it can those affected particularly in the Lockyer Valley and Murphy’s Creek area to the east of Toowoomba.

'Updates on conditions are being made and we are putting in place information sites for staff and students to access.' Professor Baker said.

He said that the USQ Residential Colleges had made available a number of rooms free of charge to staff who have been isolated by the floods from their homes.

'Already about a dozen staff, students and their families have taken up the offer of the on campus accommodation and we’ll be extending this offer for as long as needed' Professor Baker said.

While the current flood situation had caused a number of disruptions Professor Baker said that enrolment applications for Semester 1 are still being processed and that current and intending students should continue to plan to attend classes as normal.

'We understand a number of our current external students enrolled over the summer semester have been affected by the floods and we working with these to ensure that they are not disadvantaged in any way.'

Professor Baker said USQ was working closely with all levels of government and local communities to assist where it can and also to provide whatever support and help is needed to those affected by the recent flood rains.

'Our thoughts are with all those affected by the recent floods and trust that the situation will quickly improve,' Professor Baker said.

Contact Details:
Dr Aidan Burke, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2313, Mobile 0412 647 004