Cyclone Alfred did extensive damage on our block and the adjacent marine park mangroves from massive trees going down in a domino effect in high winds.
Because our house and adjoining structures were not damaged and because we could safely access the street, it was difficult to access emergency help.
When we had almost given up, I came across Redland Council green waste assistance and our request was eventually referred to volunteer veterans from Disaster Relief Australia. To our amazement, assessment occurred quickly and a team was on site within a couple of days.
A team of 8 or 9 people worked all day in high humidity, thick mud, annoying bugs and on a deep slope. They were filthy and exhausted, but they ploughed on and pushed through to break the back of a mammoth job. The chainsaws did not stop and their teamwork and good humour were outstanding. The young ones, the mature warriors, the women and the men are people within Disaster Relief Australia to be rightly proud of.
Yes – there is more that needs to be done to clean up, but we simply cannot believe the effort and achievement of the team today.
I cried when the team left today, and my husband and I are so grateful and so encouraged. We can pick ourselves up, we can keep going, we are deeply moved by your service and your organisation.
May God bless you all, each and every one who contributes to this effort both on the job and behind the scenes.
Kindest regards
Deb and Norm
