Second death confirmed in flood-hit north Queensland as threat eases

The Townsville community was breathing easier on Tuesday after the Ross River fell short of peaking at a major flood level.

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“There is no doubt that the city has dodged a bullet,” Queensland Premier David Crisafulli told reporters in Townsville.

“If you reflect that nearly six years ago to the day, people were picking up the pieces, and to think that that, in many cases, has been spared is certainly a relief.”

People evacuated in Townsville’s “black zone” – spanning Hermit Park, Rosslea and Railway Estate – have still been urged not to return home until authorities say it is safe.

Crisafulli said his parents had previously reflected on the devastation of the 1967 floods and how the community of Ingham hoped it would never happen again.

“This event has proven that another one did come … the devastation is quite frankly, incredible,” he said.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told federal parliament his government would provide “whatever assistance is requested”.

“We stand shoulder to shoulder with … every Queenslander,” Albanese said.

Recovery efforts will become the focus as flooding begins to recede, with widespread rainfall set to ease in coming days.