Early action praised

02/02/11

Federal Shadow spokesperson for Regional Health Andrew Laming has praised Queensland authorities and the ADF for today’s evacuations in Cairns ahead of Cyclone Yasi.

Around 250 patients from Cairns Base and Cairns Private hospitals will be evacuated to Brisbane hospitals beginning this evening.

“Early evacuation is vital to reduce the potentially devastating impact this cyclone may have on health infrastructure,” Dr Laming said.

“Cyclone Yasi is likely to threaten food and potable water supplies as well as transport, telecommunications and utility infrastructure.”

Dr Laming also commended the Queensland Chief Health Officer for providing early warnings about stocking up on clean water supplies, ice, gas, non-perishable foods, baby formula and essential pharmaceuticals.

“Queenslanders are notoriously stoic around storm events,” Dr Laming said.

“No matter how many cyclones one has seen before, there is no substitute for being fully prepared.”

Dr Laming urged North Queenslanders in cyclone-affected areas to follow media announcements and to heed emergency warnings in coming days.