Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ), Sea Swift, and Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) are working together to maintain essential supplies in remote Far North Queensland as severe wet weather continues to impact the region.
The extreme weather has disrupted supply chains, affecting stores in Cape York, the Torres Strait, and urban centres including Cairns and Townsville.
TSIRC chief executive officer, James William, said the council is committed to ensuring the seamless delivery of essential services by strengthening partnerships and communication.
"Our council provides a diverse range of services to the communities we serve," Mr William said.
"In times of uncertainty, such as extreme weather events, we prioritise strengthening partnerships and communication.
"Access to our communities by air and sea is critical not only for transporting people but also for delivering goods and services."
CEQ, Sea Swift, and TSIRC are coordinating logistics to ensure food, fuel, and other supplies continue reaching affected areas.
CEQ chief executive officer, Michael Dykes, said their focus is on keeping communities informed and ensuring essential goods remain available.
"While efforts are being made to maintain a steady supply, residents may notice some shortages, particularly in fresh produce, and communities are encouraged to consider alternative products where possible, such as long-life milk instead of fresh milk," Mr Dykes said.
"Anticipating this significant weather event, CEQ switched some of our supply routes from rail to road to increase flexibility where possible, as well as utilising our ongoing wet season sea and air freight strategies.
"I'd like to reassure customers that although this is an increase in supply routes to our remote stores during the wet season, CEQ is continuing our commitment to relieve cost of living pressures by absorbing all additional freight costs to ensure that prices in store will not change for customers."
CEQ has increased weekly stock levels in all stores and reserved emergency pallets of water.
Larger stores have generator backups, and all locations are equipped with Starlink connections to maintain communications.
Sea Swift executive chairman, Chris Pearce, said the Torres Strait region faces unique challenges, and logistics are often affected by extreme weather.
"Sea Swift are a resilient service, committed to the Far North and Torres Strait," Mr Pearce said.
"The climate and environment are a constant challenge for the communities and can present operational hurdles in logistics, transportation, and freight.
"We are working together to ensure we minimise the impact on our customers."
Mr Pearce said Sea Swift is actively monitoring conditions and working closely with authorities to ensure the timely delivery of supplies.
CEQ, Sea Swift, and TSIRC are urging residents to purchase only what they need to ensure equitable access to supplies for all.
