Real-time alerts, right in your pocket

Published on 04 December 2024

Rockhampton Region residents now have a new way to stay informed during emergencies with the launch of Council’s Emergency Dashboard Alerts feature.

Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group Mayor Tony Williams said the feature is a step forward in how the community can be informed and stay safe.

“We’re pleased to be launching this new tool on our Emergency Dashboard with residents now able to subscribe to receive emergency warnings and weather updates directly to their devices,” Mayor Williams said.

“This feature is about making sure our community receives reliable and immediate updates, allowing you to stay informed.

“I encourage all residents to take advantage of the tool and sign up to ensure you are prepared.”

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said this initiative is an important step to ensure communities have the tools they need to stay informed and prepared during emergencies.

“During a disaster up to date, accessible and relevant information is vital in helping the community stay safe,” Minister McAllister said.  

“We’re working with all levels of government to better prepare and protect communities.”

Deputy Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group Councillor Drew Wickerson said the Emergency Dashboard Alerts tool is simple, straightforward and customisable.

“Residents can choose to receive alerts by email or SMS, with options to subscribe to specific notifications,” Councillor Wickerson said.

“Community members can receive alerts issued from the Bureau of Meteorology, Queensland Fire Department and Council.

“The service is opt-in, so you can unsubscribe any time if your needs change.

“Be proactive and opt in to a centralised way to receive information when it’s needed most.”

To stay informed and be prepared, visit Council’s Emergency Dashboard to subscribe to the new alerts service and ensure you’re ready for any situation.

Further Information:

Residents are required to sign up with an email address and local mobile number.

Email alerts will be sent to those who have opted in once they have been issued by Bureau of Meteorology, Queensland Fire Department or Council.

For example, if the BoM issues a weather warning for the Capricornia area, an alert will be sent to the preferred device. Residents can receive other alerts covering events such as storms, heatwaves, floods, and cyclones.

Other types of alerts include, bushfire alerts issued from the Queensland Fire Department and other emergency news updates from Council such as information about open evacuation centres, recovery hubs, and available support services.

SMS alerts will only be sent once the Rockhampton Local Disaster Management Group has been activated.