Central Coast Council has welcomed the announcement of disaster assistance to residents affected by the recent storms that swept through the region.

This will provide relief to a number of residents, particularly those who experienced coastal erosion damage at Terrigal, Avoca and Wamberal.

Council’s Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said the relief funds were very good news to the hundreds of residents affected by the recent storms and to council.

“Council and the community are still counting the cost of these devastating storms and so this is very welcome news indeed,” Mr Reynolds said.

“This time it was those living or owning businesses close to our iconic beaches that sustained the most damage and my heart really does go out to them.

“Our local road network also sustained major damage and now we will be able to apply for funding for repair work instead of it coming out of our own coffers – so I am particularly pleased about that.

“It is great to see our State and Federal counterparts acknowledging the significant impact on communities of this natural disaster and also great to see their willingness to lend a helping hand.”

Residents affected by the recent storms should contact the Disaster Welfare Assistance Line on 1800 678 593 or visit www.emergency.nsw.gov.au

Information about emergency readiness and storm preparation can be found at  www.wyong.nsw.gov.au/emergency and www.gosford.nsw.gov.au/community/community-safety/emergency-services.