St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland has warned that recovery could take years for flood-impacted residents across northern Queensland, but it’s not a journey they need to go through alone.

Far North Queensland President Veronica Innes said recovery will be a slow and arduous journey, but not an impossible one.

“We still receive regular requests from people who were hit by Cyclone Jasper, and that was back in December 2023,” she said.

“It can be a very slow process and it’s important we all support our communities through it.”

Townsville President Brian Headford said volunteer Members across impacted regions had already started to deliver clothing, food, bedding, and school supplies to affected areas, but said the real work begins once the floodwaters clear.

‘We look after each other – that’s the Queensland way’ - SVdP Qld CEO Kevin Mercer

‘Our focus is on supporting residents with long-term recovery,’ he said.

‘Thankfully some of the highways, including to Ingham, have re-opened and we can start to deliver resources in regional impacted areas.

SVdP Queensland CEO Kevin Mercer said it was important that impacted residents did not have to face the long journey of recovery alone.

‘St Vincent de Paul Society has more than 130 years’ experience helping Queenslanders through extreme weather events, from floods to bushfires. Once the flood waters start to recede, we expect there will be thousands of residents faced with the task of rebuilding their homes and their lives.

‘Our Members will be there to support those impacted with long-term recovery efforts,’ Mr Mercer said.

‘There will come a time when the waters have receded and disasters like these begin to fade from the news and the rest of the country will seem to have moved on. But the financial, physical, and emotional impacts will still be felt by residents of North Queensland for months and even years to come.

‘Regional Queenslanders are known for their strength and courage – but I do encourage anyone feeling overwhelmed to not be afraid to reach out for help. We are tough, but we still look after each other – that’s the Queensland way.’

Financial donations to support impacted residents can be made at vinnies.org.au/northqldfloodappeal2025