Don’t Wait for Disaster: Gympie Launches Third Summer Safety Push
Published on 01 December 2025
Don’t Wait for Disaster: Gympie Launches Third Summer Safety Push Gympie region residents are being urged to take practical steps now to prepare their homes, families, and properties for severe weather this summer. With storms, floods, and bushfires posing significant risks across the region every year, early preparation remains one of the most effective ways to stay safe.
Council is encouraging the community to understand their local hazards, make a household emergency plan, and gather essential supplies before extreme weather hits.
Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group and Gympie Regional Council Mayor, Glen Hartwig, emphasised the importance of preparation in a year where the region had already faced multiple severe weather events.
“We’ve seen firsthand this year just how quickly things can change. Our region has been impacted by several disaster events, including Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, proving that severe weather can come out of nowhere,” Cr. Hartwig said.
“It’s encouraging to see well-known locals helping share these messages as part of Council’s Summer Safety campaign. Their support reflects the strength and resilience our region is known for.
“Let’s all take the time to prepare, stay informed, and keep safety front of mind. And remember: if a road is flooded, forget it.”
Gympie Regional Council Disaster Management Coordinator, Peter Southern, said preparedness was something everyone could take proactive steps toward.
“Being prepared doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple actions like keeping an emergency kit, knowing your evacuation routes, and staying informed through trusted sources can make a big difference,” Mr Southern said.
“Council’s online Disaster Dashboard gives our community access to real-time information on weather warnings, bushfires, road closures, flood mapping, and power outages, helping people make informed decisions when it matters most.”
Gympie Regional Council’s Summer Safety disaster preparedness campaign, now in its third year, supports this proactive approach by providing residents and visitors with clear, accessible information on how to prepare for severe weather.
A key focus of this year’s campaign is community collaboration, with local leaders and key figures from across the Gympie region stepping up as ambassadors to help spread the message of disaster preparedness.
Campaign ambassadors include:
- Jenny Wilson – State Emergency Service
- Brad Inskip – Queensland Police
- Aisha Belling – Playback Gympie
- Emma Buhse – Local disability advocate
- Mayor Glen Hartwig – Gympie Regional Council
- Councillor Warren McEwan – Gympie Regional Council
Each ambassador will be featured in a dedicated video as part of a series on Council’s Facebook page, sharing key preparedness tips.
To access Council’s Disaster Dashboard, visit www.disaster.gympie.qld.gov.au
For more information about Summer Safety, visit www.summersafety.com.au