White, Patrick (2021) The 2019 flood in Townsville: politics and water crises in Queensland's dry tropics. In: 2021 Queensland Disaster Management Research Forum: presentation abstracts. p. 7. From: 2021 Queensland Disaster Management Research Forum, 14 July 2021, Online.

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Abstract

This presentation explores the historical tension between urban devenlopment and the natural environment in northern Australia's largest city. In 2019, a massive flood submerged parts of Townsville. The initial drought-breaking weather event quickly became a catastrophe. Hundreds of homes were destroyed and families were displaced. Emergency services partnered with local, state, and federal governments and the Australian Defence Force to render assistance. Yet amid the chaos of flooding, there was a familiar sense of relief as the rain replenished the city's dwindling water supply. While the damage caused by floods seems to be forgotten, water scarcity is a constant concern in Queensland's dry tropics. Townsville is confronted by two water problems: deluge and drought and its local authorities and residents are torn between flood mitigation and water security. This presentation explores the city's 150-year struggle with the natural environment and sign posts lessons for future development planning and emergency disaster responses.

Item ID:	69339
Item Type:	Conference Item (Abstract / Summary)
Keywords:	Flood, Drought, Disaster, Emergency, Diaster Management, Development
Additional Information:	On 14 July 2021 the IGEM hosted the inaugural Queensland Disaster Management Research Forum. The virtual event featured 48 research projects exploring the theme looking back, being present, looking forward. Projects were presented by academics, early career researchers and industry-based practitioners to continue IGEMs work in supporting collaboration and knowledge exchange between the research and disaster management sectors. Two Panel sessions were also held, bringing together academics and practitioners to share their thoughts on Does history help or hinder? and Opportunities and Enablers of Change.
Date Deposited:	14 Sep 2021 01:51
FoR Codes:	43 HISTORY, HERITAGE AND ARCHAEOLOGY > 4303 Historical studies > 430302 Australian history @ 95% 45 INDIGENOUS STUDIES > 4501 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, language and history > 450107 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history @ 5%
SEO Codes:	28 EXPANDING KNOWLEDGE > 2801 Expanding knowledge > 280113 Expanding knowledge in history, heritage and archaeology @ 100%
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