WIRAC operating as evacuation centre

WIRAC has been activated as an evacuation centre during the flood.

By Dominique Tassell

Warwick Indoor Recreation and Aquatic Centre (WIRAC) has been activated as an evacuation centre for locals affected by the floods.

A Southern Downs Regional Council (SDRC) spokesperson stated that bedding and food is available, and there is still space at the centre.

Locals do not need to call ahead, and can simply show up.

The pool is now closed but the gym will remain open until 6 pm.

Pets are not allowed in WIRAC, but the SDRC pound is working with the centre to take in displaced cats and dogs.

The SDRC spokesperson stated that locals can take their pets to the pound and put them in the dog or cat boxes.

They stated the fee to return animals is being waived due to the natural disaster.

Locals can also take their pets to a refuge in Barnes Park on the corner of Horsman Road and Matthews Street, behind the lapidary club.

Anyone needing assistance at Barnes Park is encouraged to please bring their own pet food. They have also requested locals bring crates or cages for their cats, and leads or restraints of some kind for their dogs.

Staff at Pets Domain in Warwick say that all animals are different and will react differently to weather events like flooding.

Some things, like calming chews, may help alleviate anxiety.

While locals can’t walk their pets through Rose City Shopping Centre, they are allowed inside Pets Domain.

If you want to take your dog into the store to try on any products or help them better advise you, call the store beforehand and they can let you in through the back entrance.

The store remains open today until 5:30 pm.