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Flood level drops to take days

The community of St George in SW Queensland has been spared theworst from a massive flood, but it might be some time before a clean-upof the partially submerged town can start.

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Source: AAP


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The south-west Queensland community of St George has been spared the worst from a massive flood, but it might be some time before a clean-up of the partially submerged town of 28-hundred inhabitants can start.

The Balonne River peaked yesterday, lower than the expected 14 metres, which would've flooded 80 per cent of the town.

But the 13.5-metre peak is still the highest level since recordings began in 1890.

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The ABC quotes a local official as saying it's likely to take three days for the water level to drop.

Meanwhile, flooding is also threatening Bollon and there's also concern for the town of Theodore in central Queensland where floodwaters are expected to rise to 13.2 metres.

But water levels in Charleville and Roma appear to be receding.

3000 sandbags for Theodore

In Theodore yesterday, about 3000 sandbags have been moved in as a precaution and an extra SES floodboat crew has been deployed to the area.

Evacuation centres have been established at the Theodore State School and Theodore Hotel inpreparation, with mattress and bedding supplies being shipped in on Saturday to cope with an expected surge in residents requiring overnight accommodation.

Some homes and business have also been affected by flooding at Meandarra although the situation there is stable.

Water levels in Charleville and Roma appear to be receding.

SES volunteers deployed

Sixty-five SES volunteers were deployed to Charleville on Saturday, with a further 19 to Roma to assist with the clean up.

The federal government is providing support to the Queensland government through the national disaster relief and recovery arrangements.

Mr Rudd said all local government areas were eligible for funding assistance, including for restoration of essential public assets.

Concessional loans of up to $250,000 for small business and primary producers affected were available, he said.

Queensland police and the Australian Red Cross have set up a call centre for members of the public wishing to check on victims of the floods, concerned relative or friends can now call 1800 100 188 for information.


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