A TROPICAL low bringing torrential rain to North and Far North Queensland has affected supply chains to the Port of Townsville.
The ABC reported yesterday about widespread stock deaths from flooding with the possibility the low pressure system may become a cyclone.
A spokesperson for the Port of Townsville said they were aware the Flinders Highway and Mount Isa Rail Line, between Port of Townsville and the North-West Minerals province, remained closed due to ongoing heavy rain and flooding.
“Depending on the length of the closure, this may cause some disruption to the volume of cargo moved through the Port such as fertiliser and mineral concentrates,” the spokesperson said.
“Port infrastructure has not been impacted during the weather event, and the Port remains operational.”
A Ports North spokesperson said there had been no additional freight arriving and most of the supermarket chains carried additional stock aware of likely road closures.
The ABC quoted the Bureau of Meteorology that there was “a moderate chance of a cyclone forming off far north Queensland” later this week.
"It's definitely one that our tropical cyclone specialist team here at the Bureau is going to be watching really closely as the week goes on," a BOM meteorologist told the broadcaster.
Queensland local government and disaster recovery minister Ann Leahy has announced a joint state/federal assistance package for affected councils and farmers, with a focus on helping farmers get feed to affected stock.
“This funding will cover the costs of clean-up and repairs of key public assets,” Ms Leahy said.
Federal emergency management minister Kristy McBain said support would continue to be provided to communities impacted by the monsoonal flooding.
“These monsoonal conditions have had a huge impact on communities, livestock, roads and infrastructure,” Ms McBain said.
“This activation will make sure affected councils have the funds they need to repair essential infrastructure and recoup counter disaster operation costs from this significant event.”