The previous 2021 flood, where I almost lost every animal on the property, had greatly impacted my farm, so I erected new fencing and repaired others. I built a fence that locked the cattle away from the river. The kilometres of fencing was an expensive operation which, on my own, took me considerable time. And then came the recent flood and the thoughts of “Not again”.
The recent floods brought widespread devastation to the Mid-North Coast, with its Macleay, Hastings and Manning river systems. The damage and destruction in towns and villages, farms and rural properties have left many in our communities with total losses and others with huge clean-ups and repairs which will take weeks and months to complete. Tragically, some may never recover. In comparison, the damage on my farm was insignificant — but it was important. The fence line was covered in debris, which required quick removal and rebuilding to prevent cattle walking through to adjoining properties and onto a busy road.
Visiting the Wauchope Services Australia Centre and meeting with the Disaster Relief Australia contact changed everything. The woman was excellent, combining careful listening with a mix of empathy and practicality. The resulting experienced assessment team organised what resources and people were required, and the six-member work team — trained in the use of their equipment — were very competent and willing. The team was also very well led. What they achieved in one day would have taken me far longer on my own. Their work here completed, they began again in Taree and Kempsey the next day. I was really impressed by the whole operation. I was also very thankful.
What also surprised me was the distance these volunteers had travelled for the flood relief work. Some came from NSW, others from North Queensland, and another from Western Australia. All had a real sense of purpose. My guess is that these volunteers will visit many farms and towns to help in many different ways, and their short time at this farm will become just a small memory in the host of memories they will have of their time volunteering on the Mid-North Coast. However, I will remember them for a very long time for the willing assistance they gave to me at this small farm. I thank them all.
Michael Old
Redbank, NSW