Minister for Emergency Services Tony Kelly acted upon representations from the Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper MP and advice from the State Emergency Service.
"After receiving further information on the impact of the flood downstream on the Namoi River, the Rees Government will extend the declared affected area to include the Gunnedah Shire"
Mr Kelly said the natural disaster declaration, now covering both the Tamworth Regional Council and Gunnedah Shire local government areas, provides for a range of assistance to residents, business owners and councils whose properties are damaged.
"Most importantly, it ensures councils are reimbursed for the cost of repairing public infrastructure," said Mr Kelly.
Mr Draper said the torrential rains throughout the district in over the weekend had caused flooding and damage to infrastructure, homes and rural properties.
"The Namoi River peaked near 7.8 metres early Sunday with flooding, cutting the town of Gunnedah off from Tamworth via the Oxley Highway," Mr Draper said.
Mr Kelly said the SES had evacuated a few residences in Gunnedah due to rising floodwaters and that numerous local roads were closed. 35 requests for assistance had been received from the public by the SES.
Mr Kelly again paid tribute to the work of the SES volunteers and emergency services.
"Our hardworking volunteers and emergency services personnel have continued an outstanding effort in supporting their community and should be congratulated"
SES Director-General Murray Kear urged those individuals requiring assistance to contact the State Emergency Service and stated the SES would continue to closely monitor the welfare of properties around the town.
"I would urge anyone who still needs help from the SES to call 132 500", Mr Kear said.
The SES is continuing to monitor conditions in Wee Waa, with further flooding expected on Tuesday.
Minister for Emergency Services Media Contact: 02 9228 3999
NSW Government - Office for Emergency Services News and Events
