Flood victims invited to share their story with researchers

A traffic light at the intersection of Monkland and Mary Streets slowly sinks beneath the filthy water on Saturday, 27 February, 2020.

Queensland researchers need vital input from anyone affected by flooding this year in Gympie.

Queensland University of Technology’s Prof Kim Johnston and Dr Anne Lane will be in Gympie from 26-30 September and want to hear from residents who were flooded or cut off by floodwaters.

This critical research is conducted by Natural Hazards Research Australia in partnership with the Queensland University of Technology, the University of Southern Queensland and Macquarie University.

“Our aim is to hear directly from anyone who was threatened by rising floodwaters or inundated by the floods in Gympie,” Prof Johnston said.

“There are several ways you can take part and share your flood story.

“We can meet with you in person for a research interview between 26-30 September or you can request an interview over the phone.

“We will also be distributing a survey online in October.

“By hearing about your unique experience in Gympie, the research can gather vital insights on preparedness and response and reduce future flood risk,” Prof Johnson explained.

Register for participation at naturalhazards.com.au/floods2022.

Interviews will take place in Gympie from 26-30 September or over the phone into October and take 45-60 minutes to complete.

The survey will be available in October, but registrations are open now.

Every story is important Prof Johnson explained.

“You may have had to evacuate quickly due to rising floodwaters, or perhaps you were cut off by floodwaters and isolated for a period of time.

“We want to hear about a wide range of experiences.”

As well as Gympie, this research is being undertaken in other flooded areas across Queensland and New South Wales.

The results of the research will be used to inform strategies to improve flood safety in not just Queensland and New South Wales, but across Australia.

This independent research is funded by Natural Hazards Research Australia and supported by Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and the NSW State Emergency Service.

RESEARCH REGISTRATION – online at naturalhazards.com.au/floods2022 or text 0421 311 163