Latest news with #NSWReconstructionAuthority
The Guardian
12-06-2025
- Climate
- The Guardian
‘Too frightened to pick things up': NSW flood-affected residents return home to find snakes and spiders have moved in
Some New South Wales residents returning home after last month's record-breaking floods are finding mud isn't the only thing waiting to greet them. Thousands of mid-north coast residents left their homes in May after flooding inundated dwellings and washed away livestock. Some are only just returning weeks after the floods – and about 120 households remain in emergency accommodation, according to the NSW Reconstruction Authority. After evacuating their home on 16 May, Julie Botfield and her children returned to their Clybucca rental home on 2 June to find many unwanted house guests which had slithered their way on to the property after the area surrounding their home flooded. 'In total till today we had 39 snakes, all varieties, very large to babies. I had two snake catchers come to the property to relocate them, this also assisted with the cleanup as I was too frightened of picking things up or entering the shed,' Botfield told Guardian Australia on Wednesday. Her house was also covered with huge numbers of spiders. Dave Owens, the former NSW police deputy commissioner who has been appointed Hunter and mid-north coast recovery coordinator, said it's not uncommon for animals to take refuge in people's homes after floods – just like humans, the animals are looking for somewhere safe and dry. 'So when people return to their homes, it's not just flood waters and mud they have to contend with – in some cases snakes, spiders and other animals,' Owens said. 'If you find animals, particularly snakes or spiders, residents are urged to be careful and contact an expert to help safely remove them – the same goes for any cows or livestock they may find on their properties.' The owner and director of snake education company Reptile Solutions, Stuart Johnson, said many of the instances of snakes entering homes have occurred in lower-lying areas, such as around the Clybucca and surrounding parts of the Maclean. He said some animals had washed into people's homes during the floods. Sign up for Guardian Australia's breaking news email 'A lot of those animals naturally refuge in things like underneath vegetation, foliage, hollow logs and things, which is a lot of the stuff that gets picked up and dragged along with the flood and deposited so it gathers up along fences and inside of buildings.' He suggests mid-north coast residents who encounter snakes or spiders while cleaning up should avoid them – and call in professionals. 'The major cause for snake bites and spider bites is through direct contact, where people try to directly capture or harm the animal,' Johnson said. 'So be vigilant and seek the appropriate assistance through trained and qualified individuals to assist in safely handling and removing the animals.'
ABC News
08-06-2025
- Climate
- ABC News
Snakes, spiders and mould confront residents after NSW Mid North Coast floods
Mud and mould are not the only issues facing those returning to their homes after major flooding on the New South Wales Mid North Coast. Clybucca resident Julie Botfield was evacuated by boat with two of her children and their dogs during the height of the flooding in late May. She said she was shocked by what she discovered at the rural property when she returned to inspect it a week and a half later. "The snakes and spiders were an issue in me getting back in there," Ms Botfield said. "There were 30 snakes down in the shed alone … I wasn't expecting that many. Ms Botfield, a single mother, was assisted by Brenden Kendall, who lives near Kempsey and helps people needing snakes relocated. "I saw a few baby snakes up and down the driveway just walking up to the property, some were still hiding in the shed," Mr Kendall said. "Once we got up to the shed, we ended up with a total of 30 snakes caught. Ms Botfield, who rents the property, said she also had it treated for pests as the walls were covered in spiders. "I had a pest man come [after the flood] … he said it was the worst property he has ever treated." NSW Reconstruction Authority Recovery coordinator Dave Owens said it was not uncommon for animals to take refuge in uninhabited properties after floods. "The animals are looking for somewhere safe and obviously residents are vacated," he said. "So, when people go back in, it's not just the floodwater and mud on the ground, it's snakes, it's spiders, it's other creatures, so you need to be careful." Ms Botfield said the time it took before she was able to return and access the property meant that mould had also spread. "The storms and rain keep coming." Mr Owens said mould was a significant issue after a flood, and airing out impacted homes as soon as possible was vital. "Open all doors and windows to let in fresh air and sunlight … reduce humidity by limiting humidifiers, indoor plants and unflued gas heaters," Mr Owens said. "To clean mould off surfaces, use detergent or diluted vinegar, four parts vinegar to one part water. "For stubborn mould, you can use a diluted bleach solution but never mix vinegar and bleach." A household cleaning expert has also recommended oil of cloves for cleaning mould. North Coast Public Health Unit's environmental health officer David Basso said mould spores could cause health problems for people who were sensitive or allergic to them. "The health effects from mould exposure can be a runny or blocked nose, irritation of the eyes and skin and difficulty breathing, particularly [in] people with asthma." He said removing mould would be more challenging during winter. "When we have adverse weather, it's difficult to maintain that proper airflow through your home," he said. Mr Owens said about 700 residential properties across the region were still deemed uninhabitable and the focus was on getting displaced families back home. "It could be as simple as they've had water over the floor, and we need to get a sparkie [electrician] in to check it's safe and then they can move back in," he said. "We have about 150 households in emergency accommodation. "A lot of people have gone to family and friends, couch surfing is a term that's been used." Ms Botfield is currently staying with family and said she was prepared for a long road ahead. "I've had Disaster Relief Australia out to help and they have been great … they even found another two snakes," she said. "I want to show my kids we are strong and resilient, we've got this."
The Advertiser
01-06-2025
- Business
- The Advertiser
Who's responsible for small businesses surviving disasters?
My heart breaks for the communities currently devastated by floods across NSW. But it aches even more for the small-business owners and farmers trying to stay afloat - again. In disaster after disaster, they are among the first to be affected and the last to recover. While saving lives is always the top priority, we need to talk seriously about livelihoods. A lost business or farm isn't just an economic loss, it's a personal tragedy, a collapse of purpose and, in some cases, a precursor to additional loss of life. Without livelihoods, communities struggle to recover. The 2011 National Strategy for Disaster Resilience introduced the concept of "shared responsibility" in Australia's approach to emergencies. But what does that mean in practice when it comes to small businesses and farms? And have we progressed any further since 2011? Let's be honest: the primary responsibility for continuity lies with the business or farm owner. But the reality is, most small-business owners aren't risk analysts or continuity planners. A pub owner in a regional town is likely managing shifts and stock, not developing a flood risk management plan. MORE OPINION: A farmer running a multi-generational cattle property may be juggling drought, debt, and livestock, not drafting an evacuation or recovery blueprint. A hairdresser in a small coastal town is thinking about customers and payroll, not business impact assessments. So, whose job is it to ensure these vital parts of our community survive and bounce forward after disasters? The answer should be: all of us. Small businesses and farms are the social and economic backbone of Australia's regions. According to Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson, they employ nearly half the private sector workforce. Yet the average small business operator earns below minimum wage. They're investing everything - often including their family homes - to keep going. It's unconscionable that these stakeholders remain a blind spot in national disaster policy and practice. Will the newly appointed Minister for Small Business, Cowan MP Dr Anne Aly, prioritises disaster resilience for this sector? Or does the responsibility fall to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the body charged with driving national resilience? Perhaps it's both. And what about the state governments, who are closer to the ground? In this complex landscape, the NSW Reconstruction Authority offers a compelling example of what "good" looks like. Their collaboration with certified social enterprise Resilient Ready in the Business Beyond Disasters Northern Rivers program demonstrates how small business resilience expertise can be effectively deployed through targeted government investment. This kind of partnership is exactly what's needed - programs developed by people who understand the real challenges small operators face and can meet them where they are. But timing is critical. We keep talking about the need for a window between disasters to work on preparedness. That window no longer exists. In our new reality of compounding and cascading disasters, we must prepare as we recover. Resilience isn't a nice-to-have anymore, it's an operational necessity. We must do disasters differently. That means embedding resilience thinking into every layer of recovery funding and programming. It means funding practical, place-based support for small businesses that focuses not only on rebuilding but rethinking how to reduce risk. It also means creating space for peer-to-peer learning, local storytelling and connection because resilience grows through relationships. Responsibility is not just on the business owner or farmer. Work delivered with the Torrens Resilience Initiative for the South Australian grape and wine sector last year very clearly showed there's much more to be done. The government must better understand how and why small businesses and farmers are key to community resilience. The Productivity Commission's 2023 report into natural disaster funding called for a rebalancing toward mitigation and risk reduction, not just response and recovery. That rebalancing must include tailored support for small businesses and farmers. Let's stop pretending these operators should fend for themselves. Let's recognise that their survival is not only their responsibility but a shared national priority. Because when small businesses and farms fall, whole communities fall with them. We must enable them to connect, survive and thrive, not just endure. That's not only a smart investment in Australia's economic future, it's the right thing to do. My heart breaks for the communities currently devastated by floods across NSW. But it aches even more for the small-business owners and farmers trying to stay afloat - again. In disaster after disaster, they are among the first to be affected and the last to recover. While saving lives is always the top priority, we need to talk seriously about livelihoods. A lost business or farm isn't just an economic loss, it's a personal tragedy, a collapse of purpose and, in some cases, a precursor to additional loss of life. Without livelihoods, communities struggle to recover. The 2011 National Strategy for Disaster Resilience introduced the concept of "shared responsibility" in Australia's approach to emergencies. But what does that mean in practice when it comes to small businesses and farms? And have we progressed any further since 2011? Let's be honest: the primary responsibility for continuity lies with the business or farm owner. But the reality is, most small-business owners aren't risk analysts or continuity planners. A pub owner in a regional town is likely managing shifts and stock, not developing a flood risk management plan. MORE OPINION: A farmer running a multi-generational cattle property may be juggling drought, debt, and livestock, not drafting an evacuation or recovery blueprint. A hairdresser in a small coastal town is thinking about customers and payroll, not business impact assessments. So, whose job is it to ensure these vital parts of our community survive and bounce forward after disasters? The answer should be: all of us. Small businesses and farms are the social and economic backbone of Australia's regions. According to Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson, they employ nearly half the private sector workforce. Yet the average small business operator earns below minimum wage. They're investing everything - often including their family homes - to keep going. It's unconscionable that these stakeholders remain a blind spot in national disaster policy and practice. Will the newly appointed Minister for Small Business, Cowan MP Dr Anne Aly, prioritises disaster resilience for this sector? Or does the responsibility fall to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the body charged with driving national resilience? Perhaps it's both. And what about the state governments, who are closer to the ground? In this complex landscape, the NSW Reconstruction Authority offers a compelling example of what "good" looks like. Their collaboration with certified social enterprise Resilient Ready in the Business Beyond Disasters Northern Rivers program demonstrates how small business resilience expertise can be effectively deployed through targeted government investment. This kind of partnership is exactly what's needed - programs developed by people who understand the real challenges small operators face and can meet them where they are. But timing is critical. We keep talking about the need for a window between disasters to work on preparedness. That window no longer exists. In our new reality of compounding and cascading disasters, we must prepare as we recover. Resilience isn't a nice-to-have anymore, it's an operational necessity. We must do disasters differently. That means embedding resilience thinking into every layer of recovery funding and programming. It means funding practical, place-based support for small businesses that focuses not only on rebuilding but rethinking how to reduce risk. It also means creating space for peer-to-peer learning, local storytelling and connection because resilience grows through relationships. Responsibility is not just on the business owner or farmer. Work delivered with the Torrens Resilience Initiative for the South Australian grape and wine sector last year very clearly showed there's much more to be done. The government must better understand how and why small businesses and farmers are key to community resilience. The Productivity Commission's 2023 report into natural disaster funding called for a rebalancing toward mitigation and risk reduction, not just response and recovery. That rebalancing must include tailored support for small businesses and farmers. Let's stop pretending these operators should fend for themselves. Let's recognise that their survival is not only their responsibility but a shared national priority. Because when small businesses and farms fall, whole communities fall with them. We must enable them to connect, survive and thrive, not just endure. That's not only a smart investment in Australia's economic future, it's the right thing to do. My heart breaks for the communities currently devastated by floods across NSW. But it aches even more for the small-business owners and farmers trying to stay afloat - again. In disaster after disaster, they are among the first to be affected and the last to recover. While saving lives is always the top priority, we need to talk seriously about livelihoods. A lost business or farm isn't just an economic loss, it's a personal tragedy, a collapse of purpose and, in some cases, a precursor to additional loss of life. Without livelihoods, communities struggle to recover. The 2011 National Strategy for Disaster Resilience introduced the concept of "shared responsibility" in Australia's approach to emergencies. But what does that mean in practice when it comes to small businesses and farms? And have we progressed any further since 2011? Let's be honest: the primary responsibility for continuity lies with the business or farm owner. But the reality is, most small-business owners aren't risk analysts or continuity planners. A pub owner in a regional town is likely managing shifts and stock, not developing a flood risk management plan. MORE OPINION: A farmer running a multi-generational cattle property may be juggling drought, debt, and livestock, not drafting an evacuation or recovery blueprint. A hairdresser in a small coastal town is thinking about customers and payroll, not business impact assessments. So, whose job is it to ensure these vital parts of our community survive and bounce forward after disasters? The answer should be: all of us. Small businesses and farms are the social and economic backbone of Australia's regions. According to Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson, they employ nearly half the private sector workforce. Yet the average small business operator earns below minimum wage. They're investing everything - often including their family homes - to keep going. It's unconscionable that these stakeholders remain a blind spot in national disaster policy and practice. Will the newly appointed Minister for Small Business, Cowan MP Dr Anne Aly, prioritises disaster resilience for this sector? Or does the responsibility fall to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the body charged with driving national resilience? Perhaps it's both. And what about the state governments, who are closer to the ground? In this complex landscape, the NSW Reconstruction Authority offers a compelling example of what "good" looks like. Their collaboration with certified social enterprise Resilient Ready in the Business Beyond Disasters Northern Rivers program demonstrates how small business resilience expertise can be effectively deployed through targeted government investment. This kind of partnership is exactly what's needed - programs developed by people who understand the real challenges small operators face and can meet them where they are. But timing is critical. We keep talking about the need for a window between disasters to work on preparedness. That window no longer exists. In our new reality of compounding and cascading disasters, we must prepare as we recover. Resilience isn't a nice-to-have anymore, it's an operational necessity. We must do disasters differently. That means embedding resilience thinking into every layer of recovery funding and programming. It means funding practical, place-based support for small businesses that focuses not only on rebuilding but rethinking how to reduce risk. It also means creating space for peer-to-peer learning, local storytelling and connection because resilience grows through relationships. Responsibility is not just on the business owner or farmer. Work delivered with the Torrens Resilience Initiative for the South Australian grape and wine sector last year very clearly showed there's much more to be done. The government must better understand how and why small businesses and farmers are key to community resilience. The Productivity Commission's 2023 report into natural disaster funding called for a rebalancing toward mitigation and risk reduction, not just response and recovery. That rebalancing must include tailored support for small businesses and farmers. Let's stop pretending these operators should fend for themselves. Let's recognise that their survival is not only their responsibility but a shared national priority. Because when small businesses and farms fall, whole communities fall with them. We must enable them to connect, survive and thrive, not just endure. That's not only a smart investment in Australia's economic future, it's the right thing to do. My heart breaks for the communities currently devastated by floods across NSW. But it aches even more for the small-business owners and farmers trying to stay afloat - again. In disaster after disaster, they are among the first to be affected and the last to recover. While saving lives is always the top priority, we need to talk seriously about livelihoods. A lost business or farm isn't just an economic loss, it's a personal tragedy, a collapse of purpose and, in some cases, a precursor to additional loss of life. Without livelihoods, communities struggle to recover. The 2011 National Strategy for Disaster Resilience introduced the concept of "shared responsibility" in Australia's approach to emergencies. But what does that mean in practice when it comes to small businesses and farms? And have we progressed any further since 2011? Let's be honest: the primary responsibility for continuity lies with the business or farm owner. But the reality is, most small-business owners aren't risk analysts or continuity planners. A pub owner in a regional town is likely managing shifts and stock, not developing a flood risk management plan. MORE OPINION: A farmer running a multi-generational cattle property may be juggling drought, debt, and livestock, not drafting an evacuation or recovery blueprint. A hairdresser in a small coastal town is thinking about customers and payroll, not business impact assessments. So, whose job is it to ensure these vital parts of our community survive and bounce forward after disasters? The answer should be: all of us. Small businesses and farms are the social and economic backbone of Australia's regions. According to Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson, they employ nearly half the private sector workforce. Yet the average small business operator earns below minimum wage. They're investing everything - often including their family homes - to keep going. It's unconscionable that these stakeholders remain a blind spot in national disaster policy and practice. Will the newly appointed Minister for Small Business, Cowan MP Dr Anne Aly, prioritises disaster resilience for this sector? Or does the responsibility fall to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the body charged with driving national resilience? Perhaps it's both. And what about the state governments, who are closer to the ground? In this complex landscape, the NSW Reconstruction Authority offers a compelling example of what "good" looks like. Their collaboration with certified social enterprise Resilient Ready in the Business Beyond Disasters Northern Rivers program demonstrates how small business resilience expertise can be effectively deployed through targeted government investment. This kind of partnership is exactly what's needed - programs developed by people who understand the real challenges small operators face and can meet them where they are. But timing is critical. We keep talking about the need for a window between disasters to work on preparedness. That window no longer exists. In our new reality of compounding and cascading disasters, we must prepare as we recover. Resilience isn't a nice-to-have anymore, it's an operational necessity. We must do disasters differently. That means embedding resilience thinking into every layer of recovery funding and programming. It means funding practical, place-based support for small businesses that focuses not only on rebuilding but rethinking how to reduce risk. It also means creating space for peer-to-peer learning, local storytelling and connection because resilience grows through relationships. Responsibility is not just on the business owner or farmer. Work delivered with the Torrens Resilience Initiative for the South Australian grape and wine sector last year very clearly showed there's much more to be done. The government must better understand how and why small businesses and farmers are key to community resilience. The Productivity Commission's 2023 report into natural disaster funding called for a rebalancing toward mitigation and risk reduction, not just response and recovery. That rebalancing must include tailored support for small businesses and farmers. Let's stop pretending these operators should fend for themselves. Let's recognise that their survival is not only their responsibility but a shared national priority. Because when small businesses and farms fall, whole communities fall with them. We must enable them to connect, survive and thrive, not just endure. That's not only a smart investment in Australia's economic future, it's the right thing to do.
The Advertiser
26-05-2025
- Climate
- The Advertiser
Flood damage heartbreak as army called in for clean-up
People have been picking up their muddied possessions and surveying damage from "heartbreaking" floods, as troops are deployed to help with the massive clean-up. The number of homes deemed uninhabitable from the NSW mid-north coast floods rose to 400 on Monday, with 12,000 residents in multiple towns isolated. State MP Michael Kemp said it was tough touring ravaged regions and seeing "people's livelihoods on the side of the kerb". The after-effects of the floods that killed five people were "heartbreaking", NSW Reconstruction Authority chief executive Mal Lanyon said. "To see people's possessions on sidewalks, to see the impact on dairy cattle, to see the impact right across this region is really difficult," he said. "But what it does do is steel us to stand alongside the community to make sure we provide support." Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said 70 Australian Defence Force personnel would be dispatched from Tuesday to help with recovery and clean-up efforts. "The presence of ADF personnel on the ground brings enormous confidence to communities that are really doing it tough," he told reporters on Monday. "It's a sign of how seriously we, as a nation, are taking what is a catastrophic event." Another 100 people, mostly veterans, from non-government group Disaster Relief Australia, and volunteers from grassroots groups will bolster support on the ground. Artist and gallery owner Nadia Zarb moved to Taree four years ago and said she did not know how she could have coped with her second flood in that time if not for community support. "I'm actually not too bad ... because I've had the help," she told AAP. "We've got the best community, we've got the support around us and I couldn't ask for anything more." More than 3500 damage assessments have been completed, resulting in 400 homes deemed uninhabitable around Taree, Wingham and Glenthorne. The figure is expected to rise sharply as damage to an estimated 10,000 properties across the Hunter and mid-north coast regions of NSW is evaluated. Those who have lost income in the four worst-affected areas can apply via myGov for support equivalent to JobSeeker for up to 13 weeks. Primary producers are eligible for freight subsidies to help transport livestock and fodder. It is part of joint federal-state natural disaster recovery arrangements activated for 19 local government areas, including small loans for business. Despite floodwaters receding, rescuers face challenging conditions. In one case, they had to paddle two hours to reach two people and their working dogs who has been stranded for three days on a remote farm near Kempsey. The crew ripped down a bamboo fence and crafted a makeshift raft to tow them to safety, with the spotlight from a drone guiding them as night fell, Fire and Rescue NSW said. Heavy-lifting drones have been used to drop hay to isolated farms and for aerial welfare checks at properties. Using bulk water carriers, firefighters have been moving 250,000 litres an hour from Kempsey's town centre back into the Macleay River. Insurers have received more than 3500 claims so far, 80 per cent of which are personal property claims. Flood-affected residents are being asked to be patient and await advice from the SES before returning to their properties. The state government is opening five recovery centres in flood-impacted areas from Tuesday, offering a range of support services to affected residents. But communities could face a new weather threat in coming days. A cold front with strong winds of 60 to 80km/h due on Monday and Tuesday could hamper recovery efforts, cause damage and bring down trees, the Bureau of Meteorology has warned. People have been picking up their muddied possessions and surveying damage from "heartbreaking" floods, as troops are deployed to help with the massive clean-up. The number of homes deemed uninhabitable from the NSW mid-north coast floods rose to 400 on Monday, with 12,000 residents in multiple towns isolated. State MP Michael Kemp said it was tough touring ravaged regions and seeing "people's livelihoods on the side of the kerb". The after-effects of the floods that killed five people were "heartbreaking", NSW Reconstruction Authority chief executive Mal Lanyon said. "To see people's possessions on sidewalks, to see the impact on dairy cattle, to see the impact right across this region is really difficult," he said. "But what it does do is steel us to stand alongside the community to make sure we provide support." Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said 70 Australian Defence Force personnel would be dispatched from Tuesday to help with recovery and clean-up efforts. "The presence of ADF personnel on the ground brings enormous confidence to communities that are really doing it tough," he told reporters on Monday. "It's a sign of how seriously we, as a nation, are taking what is a catastrophic event." Another 100 people, mostly veterans, from non-government group Disaster Relief Australia, and volunteers from grassroots groups will bolster support on the ground. Artist and gallery owner Nadia Zarb moved to Taree four years ago and said she did not know how she could have coped with her second flood in that time if not for community support. "I'm actually not too bad ... because I've had the help," she told AAP. "We've got the best community, we've got the support around us and I couldn't ask for anything more." More than 3500 damage assessments have been completed, resulting in 400 homes deemed uninhabitable around Taree, Wingham and Glenthorne. The figure is expected to rise sharply as damage to an estimated 10,000 properties across the Hunter and mid-north coast regions of NSW is evaluated. Those who have lost income in the four worst-affected areas can apply via myGov for support equivalent to JobSeeker for up to 13 weeks. Primary producers are eligible for freight subsidies to help transport livestock and fodder. It is part of joint federal-state natural disaster recovery arrangements activated for 19 local government areas, including small loans for business. Despite floodwaters receding, rescuers face challenging conditions. In one case, they had to paddle two hours to reach two people and their working dogs who has been stranded for three days on a remote farm near Kempsey. The crew ripped down a bamboo fence and crafted a makeshift raft to tow them to safety, with the spotlight from a drone guiding them as night fell, Fire and Rescue NSW said. Heavy-lifting drones have been used to drop hay to isolated farms and for aerial welfare checks at properties. Using bulk water carriers, firefighters have been moving 250,000 litres an hour from Kempsey's town centre back into the Macleay River. Insurers have received more than 3500 claims so far, 80 per cent of which are personal property claims. Flood-affected residents are being asked to be patient and await advice from the SES before returning to their properties. The state government is opening five recovery centres in flood-impacted areas from Tuesday, offering a range of support services to affected residents. But communities could face a new weather threat in coming days. A cold front with strong winds of 60 to 80km/h due on Monday and Tuesday could hamper recovery efforts, cause damage and bring down trees, the Bureau of Meteorology has warned. People have been picking up their muddied possessions and surveying damage from "heartbreaking" floods, as troops are deployed to help with the massive clean-up. The number of homes deemed uninhabitable from the NSW mid-north coast floods rose to 400 on Monday, with 12,000 residents in multiple towns isolated. State MP Michael Kemp said it was tough touring ravaged regions and seeing "people's livelihoods on the side of the kerb". The after-effects of the floods that killed five people were "heartbreaking", NSW Reconstruction Authority chief executive Mal Lanyon said. "To see people's possessions on sidewalks, to see the impact on dairy cattle, to see the impact right across this region is really difficult," he said. "But what it does do is steel us to stand alongside the community to make sure we provide support." Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said 70 Australian Defence Force personnel would be dispatched from Tuesday to help with recovery and clean-up efforts. "The presence of ADF personnel on the ground brings enormous confidence to communities that are really doing it tough," he told reporters on Monday. "It's a sign of how seriously we, as a nation, are taking what is a catastrophic event." Another 100 people, mostly veterans, from non-government group Disaster Relief Australia, and volunteers from grassroots groups will bolster support on the ground. Artist and gallery owner Nadia Zarb moved to Taree four years ago and said she did not know how she could have coped with her second flood in that time if not for community support. "I'm actually not too bad ... because I've had the help," she told AAP. "We've got the best community, we've got the support around us and I couldn't ask for anything more." More than 3500 damage assessments have been completed, resulting in 400 homes deemed uninhabitable around Taree, Wingham and Glenthorne. The figure is expected to rise sharply as damage to an estimated 10,000 properties across the Hunter and mid-north coast regions of NSW is evaluated. Those who have lost income in the four worst-affected areas can apply via myGov for support equivalent to JobSeeker for up to 13 weeks. Primary producers are eligible for freight subsidies to help transport livestock and fodder. It is part of joint federal-state natural disaster recovery arrangements activated for 19 local government areas, including small loans for business. Despite floodwaters receding, rescuers face challenging conditions. In one case, they had to paddle two hours to reach two people and their working dogs who has been stranded for three days on a remote farm near Kempsey. The crew ripped down a bamboo fence and crafted a makeshift raft to tow them to safety, with the spotlight from a drone guiding them as night fell, Fire and Rescue NSW said. Heavy-lifting drones have been used to drop hay to isolated farms and for aerial welfare checks at properties. Using bulk water carriers, firefighters have been moving 250,000 litres an hour from Kempsey's town centre back into the Macleay River. Insurers have received more than 3500 claims so far, 80 per cent of which are personal property claims. Flood-affected residents are being asked to be patient and await advice from the SES before returning to their properties. The state government is opening five recovery centres in flood-impacted areas from Tuesday, offering a range of support services to affected residents. But communities could face a new weather threat in coming days. A cold front with strong winds of 60 to 80km/h due on Monday and Tuesday could hamper recovery efforts, cause damage and bring down trees, the Bureau of Meteorology has warned. People have been picking up their muddied possessions and surveying damage from "heartbreaking" floods, as troops are deployed to help with the massive clean-up. The number of homes deemed uninhabitable from the NSW mid-north coast floods rose to 400 on Monday, with 12,000 residents in multiple towns isolated. State MP Michael Kemp said it was tough touring ravaged regions and seeing "people's livelihoods on the side of the kerb". The after-effects of the floods that killed five people were "heartbreaking", NSW Reconstruction Authority chief executive Mal Lanyon said. "To see people's possessions on sidewalks, to see the impact on dairy cattle, to see the impact right across this region is really difficult," he said. "But what it does do is steel us to stand alongside the community to make sure we provide support." Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said 70 Australian Defence Force personnel would be dispatched from Tuesday to help with recovery and clean-up efforts. "The presence of ADF personnel on the ground brings enormous confidence to communities that are really doing it tough," he told reporters on Monday. "It's a sign of how seriously we, as a nation, are taking what is a catastrophic event." Another 100 people, mostly veterans, from non-government group Disaster Relief Australia, and volunteers from grassroots groups will bolster support on the ground. Artist and gallery owner Nadia Zarb moved to Taree four years ago and said she did not know how she could have coped with her second flood in that time if not for community support. "I'm actually not too bad ... because I've had the help," she told AAP. "We've got the best community, we've got the support around us and I couldn't ask for anything more." More than 3500 damage assessments have been completed, resulting in 400 homes deemed uninhabitable around Taree, Wingham and Glenthorne. The figure is expected to rise sharply as damage to an estimated 10,000 properties across the Hunter and mid-north coast regions of NSW is evaluated. Those who have lost income in the four worst-affected areas can apply via myGov for support equivalent to JobSeeker for up to 13 weeks. Primary producers are eligible for freight subsidies to help transport livestock and fodder. It is part of joint federal-state natural disaster recovery arrangements activated for 19 local government areas, including small loans for business. Despite floodwaters receding, rescuers face challenging conditions. In one case, they had to paddle two hours to reach two people and their working dogs who has been stranded for three days on a remote farm near Kempsey. The crew ripped down a bamboo fence and crafted a makeshift raft to tow them to safety, with the spotlight from a drone guiding them as night fell, Fire and Rescue NSW said. Heavy-lifting drones have been used to drop hay to isolated farms and for aerial welfare checks at properties. Using bulk water carriers, firefighters have been moving 250,000 litres an hour from Kempsey's town centre back into the Macleay River. Insurers have received more than 3500 claims so far, 80 per cent of which are personal property claims. Flood-affected residents are being asked to be patient and await advice from the SES before returning to their properties. The state government is opening five recovery centres in flood-impacted areas from Tuesday, offering a range of support services to affected residents. But communities could face a new weather threat in coming days. A cold front with strong winds of 60 to 80km/h due on Monday and Tuesday could hamper recovery efforts, cause damage and bring down trees, the Bureau of Meteorology has warned.
The Advertiser
21-05-2025
- Climate
- The Advertiser
NSW Hunter region declared natural disaster zone from flooding
The entire NSW Hunter region has been declared a nature disaster zone by the state and federal governments, unlocking rapid assistance for those affected. Seven local government areas received the declaration, including Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, Maitland, Singleton, Cessnock and Upper Hunter The Central Coast and the Mid North Coast LGAs have also been declare disaster zones, including Dungog, Kempsey, Mid Coast, Bellingen, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Nambucca, Port Macquarie, Support has been made available under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). Assistance measures that may be provided to communities include: NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said the NSW government was activating a range of basic support to assist flood impacted communities and councils "We know this is a challenging time for people in many parts of NSW, and we are rolling out these support measures so communities can begin the clean-up and recovery process as soon as possible," Ms Saffin. "We are still in the response phase but the NSW Reconstruction Authority is working closely with the State Emergency Service and partner agencies to ensure a smooth transition to recovery and the delivery of targeted support for our affected communities." Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain said the floods were "having a huge impact on communities across the Hunter". "From emergency accommodation, to support for small businesses and councils to repair damages - we're ensuring support is available during this event and as communities turn their focus to recovery," Ms McBain said. More information on disaster assistance can be found at and The entire NSW Hunter region has been declared a nature disaster zone by the state and federal governments, unlocking rapid assistance for those affected. Seven local government areas received the declaration, including Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, Maitland, Singleton, Cessnock and Upper Hunter The Central Coast and the Mid North Coast LGAs have also been declare disaster zones, including Dungog, Kempsey, Mid Coast, Bellingen, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Nambucca, Port Macquarie, Support has been made available under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). Assistance measures that may be provided to communities include: NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said the NSW government was activating a range of basic support to assist flood impacted communities and councils "We know this is a challenging time for people in many parts of NSW, and we are rolling out these support measures so communities can begin the clean-up and recovery process as soon as possible," Ms Saffin. "We are still in the response phase but the NSW Reconstruction Authority is working closely with the State Emergency Service and partner agencies to ensure a smooth transition to recovery and the delivery of targeted support for our affected communities." Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain said the floods were "having a huge impact on communities across the Hunter". "From emergency accommodation, to support for small businesses and councils to repair damages - we're ensuring support is available during this event and as communities turn their focus to recovery," Ms McBain said. More information on disaster assistance can be found at and The entire NSW Hunter region has been declared a nature disaster zone by the state and federal governments, unlocking rapid assistance for those affected. Seven local government areas received the declaration, including Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, Maitland, Singleton, Cessnock and Upper Hunter The Central Coast and the Mid North Coast LGAs have also been declare disaster zones, including Dungog, Kempsey, Mid Coast, Bellingen, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Nambucca, Port Macquarie, Support has been made available under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). Assistance measures that may be provided to communities include: NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said the NSW government was activating a range of basic support to assist flood impacted communities and councils "We know this is a challenging time for people in many parts of NSW, and we are rolling out these support measures so communities can begin the clean-up and recovery process as soon as possible," Ms Saffin. "We are still in the response phase but the NSW Reconstruction Authority is working closely with the State Emergency Service and partner agencies to ensure a smooth transition to recovery and the delivery of targeted support for our affected communities." Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain said the floods were "having a huge impact on communities across the Hunter". "From emergency accommodation, to support for small businesses and councils to repair damages - we're ensuring support is available during this event and as communities turn their focus to recovery," Ms McBain said. More information on disaster assistance can be found at and The entire NSW Hunter region has been declared a nature disaster zone by the state and federal governments, unlocking rapid assistance for those affected. Seven local government areas received the declaration, including Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, Maitland, Singleton, Cessnock and Upper Hunter The Central Coast and the Mid North Coast LGAs have also been declare disaster zones, including Dungog, Kempsey, Mid Coast, Bellingen, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Nambucca, Port Macquarie, Support has been made available under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). Assistance measures that may be provided to communities include: NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said the NSW government was activating a range of basic support to assist flood impacted communities and councils "We know this is a challenging time for people in many parts of NSW, and we are rolling out these support measures so communities can begin the clean-up and recovery process as soon as possible," Ms Saffin. "We are still in the response phase but the NSW Reconstruction Authority is working closely with the State Emergency Service and partner agencies to ensure a smooth transition to recovery and the delivery of targeted support for our affected communities." Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain said the floods were "having a huge impact on communities across the Hunter". "From emergency accommodation, to support for small businesses and councils to repair damages - we're ensuring support is available during this event and as communities turn their focus to recovery," Ms McBain said. More information on disaster assistance can be found at and
