MESSAGE FROM QLDC TO THE GLENORCHY COMMUNITY
Jan 22, 2023
Kia ora koutou katoa
The two separate drownings at the head of the lake are truly devastating. Our thoughts are foremost with the friends and whānau of those who died in these tragic incidents. On behalf of QLDC I also extend condolences to you, the local community, as well as those brave first responders and our amazing emergency services who will all naturally feel a mixture of sadness, shock and loss. These are shared by everyone at Council. Many of us have been involved in the response immediately following the first tragedy and several of our own whānau live in the township or have family here.
The police are leading the current investigations and Council will of course offer any information and assistance we can. Whilst not wishing to speculate on the outcome of these investigations, Council installed warning signage on Friday and will continue to share information to help people understand the hazards via our social media and other channels. Further information including posters for public toilets (and anyone else who’d like them for their own local premises) will follow very soon. Council is continuing to work with our partner agencies and community leaders to urgently consider all measures, including flotation devices, that might stop similar incidents happening in the future.
The question of safety on our waterways is complex and involves several different agencies as well as the wider community. There is no single authority responsible for the choice people make to enter a body of water and all have potential hazards, especially in our alpine district. However, the steps we are taking to ensure nothing like this happens again is a logical and practical way that Council can help at this incredibly sad time.
Kia kaha Tāhuna Glenorchy,
Meaghan Miller
QLDC Acting Chief Executive
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