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I 25 May 2022
A swift water rescue crew evacuated several staff and students from Pomona State School when rapidly rising floodwaters isolated the campus on Friday, May 13. Picture: J Suares.
Downpour prompts swift rescue BY ALEX PURCELL STUDENTS and staff at Pomona State School had to be evacuated by a swift water rescue team when rapidly rising floodwaters isolated the campus. Station Street was cut off by floodwaters at Subway Avenue on Friday, May 13, after a heavy downpour delivered more rain on top of 100mm that had fallen in the days prior.
A Department of Education spokesperson said six students and seven school staff members were transported across the flooded causeway to Pomona Memorial Hall. “The remaining students and staff were safely evacuated to Pomona Memorial Hall, as per the school’s Emergency Response Plan. “Parents were informed and collected their children.
"No students or staff were harmed during the severe weather event.” “The school building and facilities did not sustain any water damage.” QFES Area Commander for Gympie and Noosa and Pomona resident, Inspector Kent Mayne, said the floodwaters came up so fast it was a matter of safety. “We don’t want anyone to go near floodwaters or fastmoving water,” he said.
“The first crew to arrive responding to the call stated that the water came up very quickly and was moving very fast.” “We had one swift water crew and one motorised craft crew attend and assist with the evacuation.” Pomona State School Principal Alyson Covey said they were thankful for QFES’s quick response. “I would like to sincerely thank our parent community
who responded so quickly and collected their children from school. Pomona SS staff and leadership team are also very thankful for the support and quick response received from the Pomona Police and QFES,” she said. Inspector Mayne is reminding locals to be careful. “We’ve had a really long wet period, the ground is saturated and more rain is forecast. We
encourage everyone to take precautions and listen to the latest information and warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology.” “QFES and SES are always ready to assist but need everyone to take precautions to stay safe. “Do not go near floodwaters, you are at risk if you do. If you need SES call 132500 and if it is a life-threatening emergency call 000.”
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