The freak flood in Parkes and record floods in the region last week will require a huge recovery process. (Photo: Michelle Bicket)
Firstly, I must acknowledge the extreme trauma people have experienced, in these never seen-before extreme events. Homes flooded, family heirlooms lost, extensive damage to fences, livestock, crops, roads, and the list goes on and on. It will take time, but we will recover with the help of friends, family and a caring community.
Our thoughts and actions must also go to our neighbouring communities, such as the devastation seen at Eugowra and the repeated flooding of the Lachlan towns. Communities from everywhere, including our own, have offered to help in so many ways and we must continue to do so.
There are so many people to thank: to the members of the community who have provided and continue to provide the much-needed support, taking in washing, helping with clean-ups, making lunches, donating clothes, food, bedding and so much more. There have been acts of kindness too extensive to capture.
Our businesses have been so generous with donations and support; it is just amazing. We will endeavour to recognise these businesses in due course, but presently there are too many to mention.
The the volunteers from across the state, supporting SES, RFS and other services, and also from from Singapore, New Zealand and the Philippines. The help from across the country and internationally is humbling. The Australian Defence Forces are also here to provide support, and the rapid relief team have also done a great job.
The Parkes Chamber of Commerce has met with Council to look at how we start the economic recovery for Parkes and our neighbouring towns. Strategies such as the Shop in the Region programs, apprenticeship programs, working with insurance companies, and more are all on the table.
It will be a long hard road, more so for some than others, but as a Council we will help where we can. As Mayor, I will fight for fair treatment for all our residents.
Ken Keith, OAM, Mayor of Parkes Shire