Broome residents urged to avoid ‘unnecessary’ hospital visits as Fitzroy patients transferred from floods

The WA Country Health Service has urged Broome residents to avoid unnecessary emergency department visits to provide the capacity to care for evacuated high-risk patients from flooded areas. It comes as river levels continue to soar in the central Kimberley, with the Fitzroy River now approaching the 16 metre mark. In a statement released on Wednesday, WA Country Health regional director Rex O’Rourke said high-risk patients had been flown from Fitzroy to Broome. Mr O’Rourke said Broome Health Campus was extremely busy and reminded the community to access the Emergency Department in emergency situations. “In Broome, we’re really busy – our staff are performing extraordinary work and we’re managing well but the community can help us by reserving the ED for the most urgent situations. “If you’re not seriously unwell, give HealthDirect a call on 1800 552 002,” he said. “In the event of an emergency, always call 000.” “All of our sites – including Fitzroy Crossing – remain operational and have sufficient supplies of medicine and pharmaceuticals.” The Department of Emergency Services said Fitzroy Crossing was now completely cut off with two defence aircraft expected to come to WA to help with evacuation and supply efforts today. There have been 35 requests for assistance since Monday afternoon including people stranded by flood water and property damage. A Beaurau of Meteorology spokesperson said ex-Tropical Cyclone Ellie had taken a long route across the north of the country and had moved over the Kimberley in the last few days. It is now sitting east of Broome, over the Roebuck Plain, and has stalled. Broome received 200mm of rain overnight, 80mm recorded at Curtin RAF base near Derby, 130mm at Dampier Downs, and above 200mm at private gauges in the area. To stay up-to-date and for official advice, visit emergency.wa.gov.au.