FLOODS IN AUSTRALIA.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2143, 19 March 1908, Page 3

FLOODS IN AUSTRALIA.

MANY HOUSES SUBMERGED GREAT LOSS OF STOCK. United Press Association—Co pv right SYDNEY, March " 18. The arrival of water from above the town caused a renewal of the flood at Gunnedah. Residents in the low-lying streets have been compelled to leave their houses, while many residents of hamlets along the river are seeking refuge in town. A church is being used to accomodate the homeless. The water extends as far as the eye can reach, and the flood is the highest since 1864. In some places the water as up to the eaves of the houses, flood boats are out. Four hundred sheep were drowned on the common. It is feared that losses of crops and stock will be exceedingly heavy. Xarrabri reports that the river is again rising, causing much anxiety. Numbers of stock are surrounded by water. A selector at "VVeewaa saved 400 sheep by dismantling his stockyard and building a raft, whereupon he placed the' sheep. The damage by floods in Tamworth district is estimated at £40,000. Telegraphic communication with Queensland is still interrupted in consequence of the floods, and there is no immediate prospect of restoration. Messages for Brisbane are being cabled via. New Zealand. Brisbane files to hand show that the flood in the Brisbane rives submerged wide suburban areas. The drowning of Constable Murtagh was surrounded by pathetic circumstances. His companions did not give up their attempts at rescue until they were completely exhausted. There is a big flood at- Narribai river, which is still rising. The suburbs and all the surrounding country has been submerged. People are taking refuge in the highlands. There have been exciting experiences in rescuing stock.