Ian Macdonald (Queensland, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

by leave—I, and also on behalf of all other Queensland senators, move:

That the Senate—

(a) notes the heartbreak and loss suffered by the residents of the Townsville region following the record breaking floods last week and expresses its support and understanding;

(b) further notes the magnificent efforts of the Australian Defence Force and Emergency Service Workers, Police, Council staff, all other agencies and individuals involved in protecting life and property during the floods and the subsequent clean-up and expresses the gratitude and support of the Parliament and the Australian people; and

(c) acknowledges and applauds the selfless and compassionate actions of:

  (i) the great "tinnie navy" of ordinary folk who rescued residents as well as their pets from rising waters at all hours of the day and night,

  (ii) the masses of Townsville residents who have donated clothing, food, money and household items,

  (iii) the local businesses who put their hands in their pocket to boost the flood appeal by more than $1m,

  (iv) the volunteers who assisted at drop-off centres, and

  (v) the mud army tackling the mould and grime.

I seek leave to make a very short statement about the motion.