Wollondilly Shire Council has opened up the Mayor’s Relief Fund to provide extra support to residents impacted by Saturday’s severe storm event.
Affected residents from Thirlmere, Tahmoor and Picton who aren’t covered by insurance can now apply for up to $1,000 for the clean-up of vegetation and debris caused by the sudden ferocious hailstorm that passed through part of the shire around 6.30pm.
It lasted less than 10 minutes, but it caused extensive damage to houses, cars and trees, with much of it in the Thirlmere township.
Power was also affected, while the SES received around 200 requests for assistance to repair damage in the 24 hours after the storm passed.
“We have had teams in the field since 6.30pm last night, working hard to ensure the needs of the community are met,’’ said NSW SES Incident Controller, Inspector Dylan Whitelaw, in a social media post.
Wollondilly Council this afternoon announced support measures will include assistance already provided such as waiving the green waste tip fee waiver for impacted residents until Sunday, October 31, and the provision of an extra green bin service in the affected areas this fortnight.
Council has also adjusted the street sweeping schedule to provide extra time for clean-up of streets in the worst hit locations.
“Our thoughts are with those residents who suffered significant property damage following the intense wind and hail on Saturday,” said Wollondilly mayor Robert Khan.
“It is encouraging to see the community come together and help each other as they always do when faced with challenges like this.
“Thank you especially to our SES crews who took the lead in responding to the emergency,” he said.
“Council crews have been out clearing roads and debris over the weekend to make our roads and facilities safe. We will continue to work on the clean-up this week.
“I’d also like to invite anyone who wants to help our local community to donate to the fund. Every dollar we receive is passed on directly to affected residents and is tax deductible.”
Eligible residents who wish to apply for assistance through the Mayor’s Relief fund should head to Council’s website at www.wollondilly.nsw.gov.au/emergencyinformation/storms/storm-event-october-2021/ If you would like to donate to the fund head to www.wollondilly.nsw.gov.au/emergencyinformation/fire/201920-fire-season-support/make-adonation/
Residents who need SES assistance can call 132 500.
