Number: A011/2021
Date: 10 March 2021
I can confirm that following a significant rockfall event at the Kampong at 9am this morning, that access to Flying Fish Cove is restricted to support the emergency response.
The rockfall occurred behind Block 409, also known to locals as behind Metro's (Billy's shop).
Access to Jalan Pantai from the IOT administration building to Flying Fish Cove is limited to essential services and residents only. As an additional precaution, the section of Murray Road between Phosphate Hill Road and Nursery Road is closed to all traffic until further notice.
The emergency management comittee is continually monitoring the situation and assessing the area, including the risk of land slippage and further rockfalls.
The rockfall warning signals have been activated. These arrangements will intially remain in place for a minimum of 24 hours.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) are making contact with residents in the Kampong. The recreation centre facilities are being stood up as an evacuation centre to support the affected residents. AFP ask that residents of Block 409 prepare and pack necessary belongings for at least 4 days.
If further evacuations are required, the AFP or a Commonwealth Official will make contact with affected residents.
The community will be informed if restrictions are extended or further actions are required.
The emergency management committee appreciates the ongoing cooperation of the community to ensure the safety of personnel in landslide and rockfall susceptible areas.
It is critical that residents and visitors in the Kampong residential and recreational areas understand the risk of land slippage and rockfall and evacuate the area immediately if alarms are sounded or if asked to do so.
Please monitor my official Administrator Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/NGriggsIOT) for updates. If you have any urgent inquiries, please contact the Office of the Administrator on 9164 7959.
Natasha Griggs
Administrator of Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands