Sea Swift is collaborating with remote supermarket operator Community Enterprise Queensland and Torres Strait Island Regional Council to ensure the recent North Queensland flood event will not have a detrimental impact on island communities. Photo: Supplied.
As the severe wet weather event continues to impact supply routes in Far North Queensland, a collaboration between Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ), Sea Swift and Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) is ensuring food, fuel and other essentials get to remote island communities.
The extreme weather conditions over the past fortnight have caused significant disruptions to supply chains, affecting the ability to fully stock all stores across not only Cape York and the Torres Strait, but in urban areas like Cairns.
CEQ chief executive officer Michael Dykes said the focus remained on keeping communities informed and ensuring essential goods were available, and urged customers to avoid panic buying.
“While efforts are being made to maintain a steady supply, residents may notice some shortages, particularly in fresh produce, and communities are encouraged to consider alternative products where possible, such as long-life milk instead of fresh milk,” he said.
“It’s also important to think of others in the community, especially our more vulnerable residents, during difficult times like these.”
TSIRC boss James William said the council was committed to doing what it could to ensure continuity of service during wet season weather events.
“Our council provides a diverse range of services to the communities we serve,” he said.
“In times of uncertainty, such as extreme weather events, we prioritise strengthening partnerships and communication; this collaborative approach allows us to work efficiently with other service providers, ensuring continuity of services.”
Sea Swift executive chairman Chris Pearce highlighted the Torres Strait region was a unique environment to operate in, with the wet season offering additional challenges.
“Sea Swift are a resilient service, committed to the Far North and Torres Strait”, Mr Pearce said.
“The climate and environment are a constant challenge for the communities and can present operational hurdles in logistics, transportation and freight, [and] we are working together to ensure we minimise the impact on our customers.”
