They say preparation is the key to success when it comes to all things in life, but the saying couldn't be truer for north Queenslanders ahead of the severe weather season.
As part of that preparation, Townsville City Council is calling on local businesses and non-for-profit organisations to be part of this year's Get Ready Townsville Event.
Townsville Local Disaster Management Group (TLDMG) (TLDMG) chairperson Andrew Robinson said Get Ready Townsville would be held at Riverway on Sunday 2 November and was a timely reminder of the realities of living in north Queensland ahead of the severe weather season.
"Townsville locals know our severe weather season, typically running from November to April can be unpredictable, which is why it's so important to make sure you're prepared for anything mother nature could throw at us," Cr Robinson said.
"Council's Get Ready Townsville event is a one-stop-shop for everyone from emergency services, businesses, non-for-profit and community groups sharing their knowledge on how to be prepared.
"While the event is still a few months away yet, we're calling for exhibitors to be involved in Get Ready Townsville as stall holders.
"Last year we had 40 stalls set up and saw around 5000 people come on down throughout the day to touch up on their knowledge ahead of the severe weather season.
"So, if you are a group that has something to offer and wants to connect with and help your local community, please submit an application to get your business or organisation involved."
Get Ready Townsville will have exhibitors like SES, the Queensland Fire Department and Townsville City Council, providing residents tips for how to prepare, information on what happens if there's a cyclone or a flood, as well as local businesses who sell products such as first aid kits and generators.
Councillor Robinson said Townsville was known for its transient population which is why events like Get Ready Townsville are so valuable for the community.
"People are constantly making the move to Townsville, our recent population growth shows that, so holding an event like Get Ready Townsville is vital in highlighting what residents could expect at this time of the year," he said.
"I'd particularly encourage our new residents to head along to get a better understanding of what it means to live in the dry tropics and how to get ready.
"Disasters can happen very quickly, which is why it's important to be adequately prepared so you, your family and your home are as safe as possible."
This year Get Ready Townsville will run from 9am to midday on Sunday 2 November at Riverway.
