CITY of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams says the region’s recovery from last week’s flooding event will be a “long road”.
“Comparatively, Coffs has fared well compared to our southern neighbours and my heart goes out to them after widespread inundations at Bellingen, Nambucca Heads, Macksville, Kempsey, Port Macquarie and of course at Taree,” Mayor Wiliams said.
Rising floodwaters triggered tragedy on the Mid North Coast, leading to the death of five people.
On Thursday, 22 May, a 60-year-old woman was found dead in her vehicle near Brooklana, having reportedly been swept into floodwaters the day prior.
On Friday morning, the body of a man believed to be in his 70s was found in a car in floodwaters at Nana Glen.
In a reprieve from the tragic news, men reported missing from Nymboida and Bellingen were both located safe.
Emergency services crews sprang into action to attend to local incidents, before offering their skills to neighbouring regions as the disaster unfolded.
NSW SES Coffs Harbour volunteers completed hundreds of jobs, including flood rescues in the local area and hinterland,
sandbagging, roof repairs and attending to fallen trees.
A crew of local SES volunteers then made the journey south to Kempsey over the weekend to support recovery efforts.
“From clearing debris to conducting complex heights work and assisting with vital recovery tasks, our team was proud to lend a hand wherever needed,” a Unit spokesperson said.
“When times get tough, the orange family (SES) stands strong – because that’s what we do.
“We’re not just here for our own community – we’re here for every community.
“Whether it’s storm recovery, emotional support, or just being an extra set of hands, we show up. Always.”
City Infrastructure Acting Director Daniel Noble said the big wet had caused significant pavement damage to the road network.
“That will be one of the first jobs, to audit the network to understand what has happened as the flood waters recede,” Mr Noble said.
“We had some 25 road closures and of these only three remain partially closed.
“Due to the extended period of rain leading into the event, pavements have become saturated leading to the formation of many potholes.
“Repairs are already underway and will continue for some time.
“Due to the level of saturation, the roads are vulnerable to damage and pothole repairs may require follow up work.”
Impacted local residents can apply to dispose of flood-affected items at the Englands Road Waste Management Facility (which is now operating as usual), without having to pay the disposal fee for the next two weeks.
“Residents who suffered property damage should report it to their insurance company before starting any clean-up,” Mr Noble said.
To apply for this assistance, call the City on 6648-4000 or email coffs.council@chcc.nsw.gov.au.
Customers will need to provide the street address of the impacted property when applying for assistance to show they live within the storm/flood affected area.
Storm generated waste includes damaged building materials, furniture, carpet, garden debris and other items.
It does not cover waste generated by property repair or pre-existing materials.
Eligible households are reminded they can request up to two free bulky goods vouchers per year.
Proof of residency is required. For further information, visit: https://coffscoastwaste.com.au or call 1800 265 95.
