Editors note: Vision of resupplies, rapid damage assessments and engagement with Indigenous communities is available here: https://spaces.hightail.com/space/m4gbMMwwOs
Boats and helicopters are dropping essential food, water and medical supplies to isolated communities as the NSW SES continues to support those impacted by Ex Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
While emergency warnings have been downgraded and many people are returning home, some communities from the West of Port Macquarie, through to the Upper and Lower Clarence and into the Northern Rivers remain isolated by flooded roads.
NSW SES has received more than 70 requests for urgent supplies, with resupply jobs today undertaken in the Lower Clarence including Goodwood Island, Harwood Island, Warregah Island, Yaragai Island, Chatsworth Island and Woolbin Island.
Helicopters are also dropping essential supplies to isolated communities in Thora.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Nicole Hogan said the number of isolated communities is dynamically changing as flood waters recede.
“With some roads intermittently cut off by floodwaters, we are supporting the isolated communities with urgent food, water and medical supplies” Assistant Commissioner Hogan said.
“Anyone who is isolated and in need of supplies can contact the NSW SES and we will assist with deliveries.”
Meanwhile, NSW SES is leading 50 multi-agency crews as they assess the damage caused by Ex Tropical Cyclone Alfred across the Northern Rivers.
More than 2,000 rapid damage assessments have been completed in the Tweed and Coffs areas, as crews moved into the Lismore, Bellingen, Cassino, Arrawarra and Grafton regions today.
Assistant Commissioner Hogan said the assessments are identifying damages and ensuring the areas are safe.
“These damage assessments are an important step as we transition towards recovery, helping us to identify areas that require additional assistance,” she said.
“We would like to again remind the community of the dangers associated with coastal erosion and remind parents in particular to keep children and teenagers from playing on damaged shorelines.”
While the rapid damage assessments are being undertaken, teams of NSW SES and Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) community liaison officers are also engaging with Discreet Aboriginal Communities about their transition to recovery.
“Crews have been out on field today across the Tweed, Kyogle and the Coffs Coast areas to undertake welfare checks and ensure these communities remain supported in all phases of this natural disaster,” Assistant Commissioner Hogan said.
FRNSW Assistant Commissioner, Cheryl Steer said that their Aboriginal Liaison teams are focussed on building trust and connection in the impacted communities.
“We have two teams of Aboriginal firefighters out making connections,” Assistant Commissioner Steer said.
“A lot of our personnel have family ties to various areas, which helps locals feel comfortable and builds trust.
“This allows us to really understand the challenges they are facing and coordinate effectively with other agencies, councils and essential services.”
For the latest information and advice, download the Hazards Near Me app or visit the NSW SES website.
Those who are isolated and need assistance with supplies can contact the NSW SES on 132 500.
Media enquiries: NSW SES Media on 1800 067 234