Queensland is reeling from a devastating blow as flood warnings persist, with livestock losses now surpassing a staggering 100,000. But here's the heartbreaking reality: entire communities are grappling with the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, which continues to unleash its fury across central Queensland. As floodwaters rage through major catchments, Premier David Crisafulli met with graziers on Sunday, confronting the grim reality of massive stock losses. And this is the part most people miss: a disaster impact survey has already confirmed 68,700 stock losses in the state's north-west, but graziers and authorities fear this is just the tip of the iceberg. Here's where it gets even more alarming: speaking from flood-ravaged Julia Creek, Premier Crisafulli grimly predicted the final tally would soar 'well into 100,000,' with the full extent of the losses yet to be revealed as remote areas remain inaccessible. He emphasized the urgent need to fortify essential infrastructure, particularly roads and transport links, to prevent history from repeating itself. 'We've been making the same mistake for too long,' he admitted, 'not rebuilding to a higher standard.' But is this enough? As communities across central and north-west Queensland remain on high alert, with river systems still reacting to days of relentless rain, authorities are urging residents to stay vigilant and avoid floodwaters. Meanwhile, in Rockhampton, residents are bracing for a 'moderate' flood peak on Wednesday, with the Fitzroy River expected to rise to 7 metres on Monday before cresting below 8 metres. Senior meteorologist Dean Narramore warns of potential inundations in low-lying areas, despite the moderate warning. Here's the controversial question: are we doing enough to prepare for and mitigate the impacts of these increasingly frequent extreme weather events? As Rockhampton's Callaghan Park racecourse begins to feel the flood's effects, with trainers like Alisha Taylor forced to evacuate their horses, the financial and emotional toll becomes starkly apparent. 'It's a massive, expensive move,' Taylor laments, 'relocating our entire business and then having to bring it all back.' With sandbagging sites open across the city and disaster management groups on high alert, Rockhampton's deputy mayor Drew Wickerson urges residents to stay calm yet vigilant. But as the city recalls its most recent major flood in 2017 and the record-breaking deluge of 1918, one can't help but wonder: Are we truly learning from the past, or are we doomed to repeat it? What do you think? Is Queensland doing enough to future-proof its communities against these devastating floods? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
