New chapter for disaster recovery

Posted on September 4, 2026

Central Highlands Regional Council, in conjunction with the Queensland Reconstruction Authority, has purchased an award-winning collection of books designed to support children and families experiencing natural disasters and disruptive events. 

The ‘Birdie’s Tree’ series was purchased using Get Ready funding and will be donated to every Central Highlands Regional Council library and all primary schools across the Central Highlands.  

Mayor Janice Moriarty and Cr Gillian Wilkins made the first delivery to Dingo State School this week.  

Mayor Moriarty said the initiative reflects council’s ongoing commitment to community preparedness, recovery and wellbeing. 

‘Natural disasters can have a lasting emotional impact on children. Birdie’s Tree provides gentle, age-appropriate stories that help children understand what is happening around them and learn healthy ways to cope with fear, worry and change,’ Mayor Moriarty said. 

‘By placing these books in our libraries and schools, we are making sure families and educators across the region have access to trusted resources that support children before, during and after challenging events.’ 

Mayor Moriarty is encouraging families to make use of the resources, which were created by the Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health. 

‘These stories are about reassurance, recovery and hope. They are a valuable addition to our region’s disaster preparedness and recovery toolkit. Communities that are well prepared and supported before a disaster are more resilient and able to recover faster,’ Mayor Moriarty said. 
 
Weather doesn’t plan, but you can. For more information on disaster preparedness visit getready.qld.gov.au