Recovery in Focus: Council Leads New Approach in Disaster Readiness

Published on 07 August 2025

Council’s disaster activation exercise took a new and important focus today, shifting from the traditional scenario of a cyclone approaching to instead exploring the critical recovery phase that begins while response efforts are still underway.

Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) Chair, Mayor Adam Belot, said this shift recognises the long-term challenges communities face after the immediate threat has passed.

“This year’s activation focused on the recovery component of disaster management—something that is often less visible but just as important as the initial response,” Mayor Belot said.

“Successful recovery is community led, and, as members of our local community, the LDMG team’s input is invaluable.

“I was thrilled to see every agency and organisation fully engage in today’s exercise, sharing insights, and helping to shape a recovery framework that reflects the needs and strengths of our Shire.”

Livingstone Shire Council’s Local Disaster Coordinator Greg Abbotts said the annual training forms a vital part of Council’s Local Disaster Management Plan, ensuring the Shire is always prepared for the unexpected.

“These exercises are an invaluable opportunity for all participating agencies to meet, exchange vital information, and learn from one another so that, when a real disaster occurs, we are in a strong position to respond swiftly and effectively,” Mr Abbotts said.

“They allow us to assess whether our functional plans and procedures remain robust and relevant, while also giving staff and stakeholders a chance to practice their roles and demonstrate their capabilities in a safe and supportive learning environment.”

Mayor Belot also highlighted that recovery planning has become increasingly important as the Shire continues to experience regular natural disasters.

“Our region has been impacted by cyclones, bushfires, floods, and severe storms in recent years, so it’s crucial that Council staff, emergency services, and local agencies continue to strengthen their training and response capabilities.”

Coordinator of Disaster Management and Community Resilience, Amy Lane, said this year’s scenario brought together around 19 agencies, including emergency services, volunteers, and neighbouring councils.

“Exercise Corio Bay – No Daylight between Response and Recovery will simulate the aftermath of a severe tropical cyclone making landfall at Corio Bay. The exercise focuses on transitioning from response to recovery, reflecting the Premier’s commitment to ensuring “no daylight between response and recovery,” Mrs Lane said.

“Exercise Corio Bay has been designed as a hybrid functional and discussion-based exercise, involving simulated actions and team-based coordination without the deployment of real resources.

“Today’s recovery exercise also included a comprehensive tour of The Station in Yeppoon, which will play a crucial role in recovery following a real-life disaster.”

Council was successful in obtaining funding under the Commonwealth Government’s Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants Program to activate the site as a community recovery space post-disasters, and for use as an entertainment and socialisation precinct during non-disaster times.

Deputy Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, Councillor Pat Eastwood, echoed the importance of readiness.

“The best way to reduce disruption to your life during a disaster and improve recovery, is to understand your risk, consider all possible scenarios, and make a plan,” Cr Eastwood said.

“This exercise is a timely reminder for all residents to ensure their disaster preparations are in place before the storm and cyclone season begins.

“Residents can complete a simple preparedness check and create a customised plan for their household by visiting https://beprepared.livingstone.qld.gov.au

Residents are reminded to take key preparedness steps, including:

• Stocking an emergency kit
• Cleaning up their yard and securing loose items
• Ensuring they have a detailed emergency plan for their household

For more information, visit https://disaster.livingstone.qld.gov.au