Recovery Efforts in Full Swing for Lake Macquarie Residents

In the aftermath of the recent storms that hit the region, Lake Macquarie residents have not been left to face the challenges alone. The Lake Macquarie City Council has swiftly mobilized storm recovery options to support the community during this trying time.

Acknowledging the severity of the situation, the NSW Government has extended natural disaster assistance to Lake Macquarie City Council and surrounding areas affected by the inclement weather between 15-17 January. This declaration opens up avenues for grants, loans, and various forms of relief to individuals and businesses grappling with storm-related damages.

One critical aspect of the recovery process has been the restoration of power to all areas within Lake Macquarie. Residents who endured power outages exceeding 12 hours due to the storms are encouraged to reach out to Ausgrid for potential compensation, including assistance of up to $250 to cover food spoilage.

Addressing property damage caused by fallen trees, the NSW SES stands ready to assist in the removal of tree debris that has impacted private properties. Residents are advised to leverage the green bin collection service for the disposal of green waste, with additional support available for bulky waste removal through online booking services.

In a bid to alleviate the burden on storm-affected residents, Lake Macquarie City Council has waived the NSW Government’s waste levy for those disposing of bulky waste resulting from the recent severe weather conditions until the end of February. This provision covers a range of storm-related waste, including building debris, flooded carpet, fallen trees, and spoiled food waste.

In addition to waste management initiatives, efforts are underway to address road maintenance issues, with a focus on fixing potholes and regrading unsealed roads to ensure safe passage for residents. Hunter Water has also issued advisories regarding sewage and water conditions, urging caution in local beaches and waterways post-storm activities.

For ongoing assistance and updates, residents are encouraged to visit the Lake Macquarie City Council website or contact the customer service team for support. Despite the influx of requests, the council remains committed to assisting residents in their recovery efforts following the recent storm events.