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A Rapid Rise, Relentless Damage & The Long Road To Recovery - Cairns grower recall shocking Spring flood
CANEGROWERS Around the Paddock
A sudden September flood tore through the Russell River and Babinda Creek, smashing levee banks, blanketing new plant cane with debris, and forcing growers to rethink recovery under a tightening clock. We share first-hand accounts, real costs, policy gaps, and why community support and better forecasting now matter more than ever.
• shock rise of the Russell River and Babinda Creek
• rapid erosion, topsoil loss, and trash blanketing
• plant cane damage and long-term yield impacts
• rail line repairs and logistics delays
• costs of levee rebuilds and laser-levelling
• push for disaster declaration and grants
• red tape on using own machinery and materials
• mental health strain after four wet years
• unreliable forecasts and risky input timing
• practical recovery priorities before the wet
