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 | May 2022
I was drawn to volunteer with Disaster Relief Australia (DRA) due to its focus on supporting veterans. After service in the Royal Australian Navy in the 1960s and 1970s, I wanted to put my skills to use in helping Australians, especially with the recent floods in New South Wales.
Currently deployed to Corakai, New South Wales in response to the floods of February 2022, I got to work assisting residents in mucking out houses, removing flood damaged items and restoring the environment. I have volunteered for years as a veteran’s wellness advocate in Coff’s Harbour and I wanted to bring that expertise to Corakai, in addition to doing the more physical work.
While working at a home along the river at Woodburn, I met a fellow veteran. This 82 year old veteran had served in the Australian Army in Vietnam, Malaya and Borneo. We quickly bonded over shared experiences; we had many similar stories from our time in service. While DRA worked to repair his home, I made sure I took the time to talk with this veteran and understand his needs.
The local Vietnam veteran had been devastated by the recent floods and and required physical, emotional and financial assistance. With my experience as a wellbeing advocate at a veterans centre, I quickly understood the need for assistance. Working with this local resident, I was able to reach out to Coff’s Harbour and confirmed that RSL Defence Care was available for to assist.
It was great to see that we could get more support for this veteran than was intially available. I like to know that veterans are going to get the assistance they need for the repairs of their house and that their safety is guaranteed. It is important to see that at their age, in vulnerable circumstances, they get the support they deserve.
I’m heading home to Bellingen as Wave 8 of DRA’s Operation Kelliher winds down, but I will never forget this Corakai veteran. I’m working with veterans services, and will be able to follow up on this case to ensure that this local resident gets the support he needs as the area moves to the next phase of recovery.
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