Disaster recovery is rewarding work. Be it flood, bushfire, cyclone or pandemic, Disaster Relief Australia (DRA) is here to help. With our army of dedicated volunteers, we respond to disasters and deliver support to those in need.
Learn moreDRA brings hope to communities devastated by disaster. We unite the skills and experience of military veterans, emergency responders and motivated civilians to deploy Disaster Relief Teams around Australia and the world. We help people during some of their worst days.
Learn moreVolunteers are the cornerstone of Disaster Relief Australia’s operations. With more than 3,000 members nationwide, our veteran-led tribe serves communities before, during and after natural disasters strike to strengthen resilience and deliver much needed relief and recovery services.
Learn moreNews and stories are the heartbeat of our mission. Discover the inspiring narratives of our dedicated volunteers and resilient communities we stand by. These stories vividly depict the impact of our work, showcase the power of compassion and unity and remind us that we can make a difference together.
Learn moreDeploying with DRA and supporting disaster affected communities is rewarding beyond measure. Through volunteering, corporate partnerships, financial donations or working with us, there are many ways to make a positive contribution and become a force for good.
Find out moreThere are many ways to make a positive contribution and bring hope to others. As a not-for-profit community cause, Disaster Relief Australia exists through the combined generosity of volunteers, donors, corporate partners and fundraisers.
Find out moreDisaster Relief Australia | August 2021
It’s time to announce this month’s Spirit Award winner. This award is presented to members continuously going above and beyond. Those who best embody our core values of courage, mateship, endurance, service, tenacity, and respect. This month’s spirit award goes to Stephen Hull. After reading through many nominations, it’s obvious that Stephen embodies the values of DRA and demonstrates them regularly.
After completing 5 waves at Batlow, Steve dedicated over 40 days to Operation Corkhill. Aside from deploying, he undertook many tasks before the Op commenced such as damage assessments, liaison visits and relocating vehicles and equipment.
Steve has dedicated countless weeks to the NSW south coast community. His contribution is extraordinary and selfless. Aside from deploying in various roles (MC, OPSO, Strike Team Leader and worker), Steve spent numerous hours behind the scenes, planning jobs and liaising with stakeholders and suppliers such as Coates Hire, accommodation and local cafes. His ability to consider the needs of an Op and provide detailed advice to the Theatre Commander about numerous random and unpredictable aspects is unmeasurable. He regularly puts his life on hold in the interests of serving his community.
Recently, Steve heard a DRA member had written off his mums’ car (the only car in the family). This DRA member is the sole carer for his mother and having a car to run errands and attend healthcare appointments is crucial. Steve donated a second-hand car to his fellow DRA member without hesitation.
Since Steve Hull joined DRA, he has played a vital role not only in ACT DRT and in doing so has made a significant contribution to the community in Southern NSW.
As Training Coordinator for ACT DRT, Steve has worked tirelessly to ensure our members have the skills needed to help the community when they are in their greatest need. He has often put up people at his house when they have travelled into Canberra for training from around the region.
Steve has also made a substantial contribution in the field as a strike team member, team leader, Operations Officer and Mission Commander, as well as spending weeks undertaking damage assessments throughout the South Coast of NSW. His attention to detail in operational planning ensures that no stone is left unturned and that the Op runs smoothly. Steve played a critical role in the bushfire recovery work in Batlow NSW, Eurobodalla Shire and most recently in Bega Valley Shire.
Service to others is part of Steve’s DNA. He is the first to volunteer to lead the team and do whatever it takes – either as MC or on the end of a chainsaw – to help members of the community to move forward with their recovery after the worst bushfires in history.
– Michael Young – Disaster Relief Team Manager ACT
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We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.
