Kingborough Council continues to deal with the effects of the extreme weather event in May 2018, which saw devastating floods and damage across Kingborough.
The removal of loose flood debris along Whitewater Creek in Kingston continues, and it is hoped that this may reduce the risk to infrastructure and housing in future flood events.
The flood debris is not going to waste however, as it is compiling a substantial amount of firewood for those in need this winter.
“A large portion of the debris being removed from the creek are logs and fallen trees that are suitable for firewood,” said the Mayor of Kingborough, Cr Dean Winter.
“We hope that this is the beginning of a new initiative where what is often seen a waste product is repurposed for those that need it.”
A group of volunteers from Channel Community Care who have recently completed a chainsaw course with Australian Employment Services will see the logs turned into firewood. “This wood will go a long way at helping residents struggling with cost of living pressures this winter,” said Channel Community Care Coordinator Pete Willoughby.
Peter Willoughby is working with a variety of service providers to make sure that the firewood goes to the people that need it most.
“Council thanks the volunteers who are committing their time to this project,” said Cr Winter. “We are grateful for their efforts and hope that it brings warmth and comfort for Kingborough residents.”