Susanna Freymark
The SES evacuation centres list has the Evans Head RSL as an evac centre that does not allow household pets.
Most evac centres do allow pets and are run 24/7.
When IndyNR.com rang the Evans Head RSL, we were told that pets were not allowed in the evac centre.
This presents problems as people fleeing their homes aren’t going to leave their dogs and cats behind.
A NSW Department of Communities and Justice spokesperson said evacuation centres should allow household pets.
The DCJ runs evac centres across the state.
Richmond Valley councillor Lyndall Murray said two-thirds of Australians have at least one pet.
“I wouldn’t leave my dog behind, and neither should our community,” she said.
“The Mid Richmond needs a permanent evacuation centre that welcomes pets, while also providing a safe space for those with pet allergies.
“The SES changing its guidance from N/A to Yes then No for domestic pets is causing community angst, we need an evacuation plan that supports both pet owners and those with pet allergies in an emergency.”
The DCJ has contacted IndyNR.com and confirmed 100% that pets can be at the Evans Head RSL evac centre. The SES website with the details will be changed soon.
People are reminded to take their animals’ cage/crate/bed or lead and pet food with them to evac centres.
The Evans Head RSL has had more than 100 people at the evac centre and the club’s chef has provided more than 150 meals in the past two days, not including today, Saturday, March 8.
