Queensland Premier, Steven Miles has today announced the appointment of Deputy Commissioner Mike Wassing AFSM as Deputy State Recovery Coordinator.
Deputy Commissioner Wassing (pictured) will be tasked to work alongside Queensland State Recovery Coordinator Major General (Rtd) Jake Ellwood and Queensland Reconstruction Authority as the Far North recovers from ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper.
He will assist in coordinating disaster recovery operations, provide strategic advice to government agencies, give regular updates about recovery operations, and oversee recovery operations.
“Queenslanders in the Far North have done a great job bearing with the impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper. Now the clean up begins and the recovery is in full force,” said Premier Miles.
“Deputy Commissioner Wassing will join the QRA to assist CEO Major General (Rtd) Jake Elwood in providing the best possible support to the impacted communities.
“With extensive impacts to primary producers, small businesses, tourism and massive damage to infrastructure, recovery is going to be a big task.
“I’m confident we have the right experience and leadership to get the job done.”
Deputy Commissioner Wassing has extensive experience in disaster recovery in Queensland and Victoria, having played pivotal roles in 2009 Black Saturday fires in Victoria and 2017 Tropical Cyclone Debbie.
Minister responsible for Queensland Reconstruction Authority, Nikki Boyd said communities were facing multiple challenges including restoring essential services such as electricity and water, repairing damage to roads and other infrastructure, making houses habitable again, and reopening businesses.
“The government stands by all Queenslanders suffering the devastating impacts of ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper,” Ms Boyd said.
“Our top priority is the safety and welfare of flood-hit communities and anyone needing immediate assistance can contact the Queensland Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.
“As the long road to recovery will require a broad approach, Deputy Commissioner Mike Wassing’s experience in disaster recovery management will be invaluable and I welcome him as he transitions to work with QRA.”
