Morawa Shire invests in caravans to boost worker accommodation

Shire of Morawa councillors will this week vote on a strategy to house workers in the cyclone-hit town.

The Shire plans to purchase several caravans in line with a State Government plan to house workers temporarily in towns hit by cyclone Seroja.

According to the council agenda item, 107 properties in the Morawa shire were reported damaged after the April 11 cyclone, with 28 of those categorised as severe damage or total loss. However the actual number is estimated to be higher as farmers may have been too preoccupied with record harvests to fully report damage.

“A significant amount of the damage caused by cyclone Seroja remains unrectified throughout Morawa. The damage was wide-ranging and impacted residential properties as well as fencing, storage sheds, and recreational assets. Many property owners are still suffering from insurance roadblocks,” Morawa Shire president Karen Chappel said.

Temporary workers accommodation is also planned in surrounding areas including Perenjori and Mingenew, but the distances mean workers have been unwilling to travel to Morawa, leaving many buildings still without repairs eight months after the storm.

The $200,000 purchase of four caravans will be covered by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, but the cost of cleaning services and maintenance would fall onto the Shire, which hopes to recover the cost with a charge of $200 per night to contractors.

With the additional space for workers, the Shire hopes more room can be made available for tourists during the next wildflower season, which Ms Chappel said was “an important part of the community’s economic recovery”.

Last season saw towns throughout the Mid West, including Geraldton, booked out of all accommodation for months in advance.

The council will vote on the item on Thursday night.