The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is further assisting communities impacted by the
recent Tropical Cyclone Seroja by airlifting additional State Emergency Service (SES)
vehicles from Melbourne to Geraldton to support the recovery effort.
Minister for Emergency Management, David Littleproud, said the airlift followed a request
for assistance from the Western Australian Government through Emergency Management
Australia.
“A C-17A Globemaster III has today delivered Victorian SES vehicles, including trucks and
four-wheel drives, to where they are needed most,” Minister Littleproud said.
“The delivery of these vehicles will greatly assist local SES Unit volunteers to attend to
more damaged homes and buildings as part of the clean-up effort.
“Defence has been involved in the response from the beginning of this disaster, providing
ADF personnel and a C-130J Hercules aircraft to transport emergency services personnel
and supplies to communities within hours of the cyclone hitting the WA coast.
“Right now, there’s around 65 ADF personnel supporting recovery efforts around Kalbarri
and Northampton, including removing debris, general clean-up tasks and delivery of
stores.
“Our ADF has never been busier on home soil, helping communities time and time again,
whether it be in responding to bushfires, COVID-19, floods or cyclone-ravaged areas in
recovery operations, and I am thankful and proud of what they do.
“The Australian Government will continue to work alongside the Western Australian
Government and local communities to ensure that they have all the support they need
during this difficult time.”
