Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding has thanked Queensland Police for keeping an eye out for storm-affected residents this week.
She said the QPS had performed pro-active patrols across suburbs in the path of the huge hailstorm last Saturday, including Springfield, Springfield Lakes, Rosewood, Willowbank and Thagoona.
That had included police in vehicles and on horseback covering some of the 500 streets in Springfield and Springfield Lakes alone where homes suffered extensive roof damage.
“The police have been amazing. They have provided a vital presence in the community since Saturday’s storm and have added an element of safety and security for residents,” Mayor Harding said.
More than 1,800 homes across the region were damaged, some severely, with residents forced to seek shelter elsewhere while initial work was carried out on roofs, ceilings and windows.
QPS issued a warning this week prompting residents not to be dodged by a dodgy tradie.
“With the severe storms that have recently lashed out across South East Queensland, in particular many parts of the Ipswich Police District, the Ipswich community has experienced extensive damage to homes – many of which are required to be repaired.
“Ipswich Police are reminding community members to be alert to alleged trades persons when looking at getting their homes repaired.”
Mayor Harding said, contrary to some media reports, there had been few if any incidents of dodgy traders or scammers operating in any storm-affected areas.
“The community has banded together, as it always does in challenging times, and watched each other’s backs. I am proud to see our always resilient residents come together and support one another,” she said.
“I encourage the community to keep an eye out for their neighbours, family and friends and if you see any suspicious behaviour, then please report it to the police.”
Police said today they are currently investigating two reports of theft from storm damaged houses in the Greater Springfield area. There is no evidence to suggest that these two reported thefts are linked.
“Crime can occur anywhere and the occurrence of a weather event does not exclude criminal behaviour. There is no indication that there has been an increase in crime in the Greater Springfield area as a result of Saturday’s weather event,” a spokesman said.
“Police are conducting a range of high visibility policing initiatives in the affected areas including the utilisation of specialist units such as the mounted unit, road policing and the dog squad.”
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