The recent record-breaking downpour has left communities in and around Red Cliffs reeling, with residents facing significant disruption and loss. In the wake of the deluge, a remarkable display of community spirit and a coordinated effort from various organisations has emerged to support those most affected.
Community Rallies in Red Cliffs
The civic centre in Red Cliffs became a focal point for assistance, with the Red Cross, Salvation Army, and the Mildura Rural City Council working hand-in-hand with local residents. The centre offered a vital hub for individuals and families displaced by the flooding. Geoff Burr, the deputy municipal recovery manager, observed a significant number of “emotional people” seeking refuge and support after being forced to evacuate their homes.
Mr. Burr stressed the importance of staying informed, urging residents to tune into local radio for official updates. He also highlighted the need for flood-affected individuals to register with the Salvation Army’s recovery centre, located at the intersection of Etiwanda Avenue and Fourteenth Street. This registration process is crucial for authorities to maintain contact and ensure timely delivery of assistance.
A United Front: The Role of the Salvation Army
Sergeant Major David Bartlett of the Red Cliffs Salvation Army lauded the town’s collective solidarity. “It’s a team effort,” he stated, describing their role in providing emotional support and essential sustenance to those in need. “We are acting as a sounding board for people’s emotions,” he added, underscoring the psychological toll the disaster has taken.
Salvation Army member John Burfitt also shared his experiences, admitting to feeling “emotionally drained” after dedicating his time at the relief centre. He spoke of his personal efforts to assist residents, including delivering scones and casseroles to homes in Irymple. Mr. Burfitt expressed concern for the town’s morale, particularly given the recent history of droughts, and suggested the potential benefit of a “men’s shed” initiative to help residents process these challenges.
Personal Accounts of the Flood’s Impact
The personal stories emerging from the floodwaters paint a vivid picture of the ordeal faced by many. David Norris, a 39-year-old fruit grower from Irymple, recounted the terrifying moments as water rose through the floorboards of his home, fearing for his children’s safety from potential electric shock. “There was about three inches of water in our house and we pumped it out from underneath,” he explained.
The couple Janine Wright and Trevor Brown, residing on Irymple Avenue, endured a gruelling 48 hours without sleep as they battled to prevent their home from succumbing to the rising waters. “We have had to keep going back to check the water levels at our house,” Mr. Brown said, expressing frustration with onlookers. “Clowns driving past our house for a sticky beak are doing us no favours,” he lamented, explaining that passing vehicles exacerbated the problem by pushing water towards their property. The couple faced the heartbreaking decision of leaving their dogs behind, unable to even allow them basic freedom. Ms. Wright described their harrowing situation: “We have no power, no food, no water and not even any candles.” She recounted a frightening moment of tripping over her dogs in the dark, navigating only by the faint light of a cigarette lighter. In a poignant twist, she received a call from a friend affected by a cyclone in Cairns, only to respond, “Actually, we are the ones who are flooded now.” Her resilience shone through as she added, “You have to laugh because if you don’t laugh, you will cry.”
Cardross and the Wider Region Affected
The township of Cardross also bore the brunt of the severe weather. Red Cliffs resident Mary Chandler, 75, described the devastation, stating that the main street, Dairtnunk Avenue, was “wrecked.” She witnessed the dramatic scale of the flooding, observing children kayaking across the football oval, which was submerged under five to six feet of water. Ms. Chandler expressed deep gratitude for the tireless efforts of Peter Crisp, a Member of Parliament, who was actively involved in assessing the damage and providing assistance. “We are very lucky to have a Member of Parliament who will go out and work so tirelessly,” she commented. She expressed optimism that the renowned community spirit of Cardross and Red Cliffs would help them overcome this challenging period.
Evacuations and Temporary Shelter
The widespread flooding necessitated the cancellation of Red Cliffs’ monthly market. In response to the escalating situation, a second relief centre was established at the South Mildura Football Club. This centre provided a temporary haven for several residents, predominantly from Irymple, who were evacuated early on Saturday morning.
Elaine Lake, a resident whose Irymple flat was inundated, was among those who found shelter at the South Mildura Football Club. She was later provided with emergency accommodation at the Apex RiverBeach Holiday Park. Despite facing an uncertain future regarding housing, Ms. Lake expressed her appreciation for the support from the Mildura Rural City Council in securing her accommodation. “I don’t know what I am going to do about another house – but that the housing commission’s problem,” she stated pragmatically. Her immediate concern was safety: “All that matters is that I’m alive and I’m safe.” At 77 years old, she viewed the experience as a learning opportunity, remarking, “It’s another experience – I’m 77 years of age and I’m still learning things.” Ms. Lake, who refused to be separated from her beloved 15-year-old dog, Gem, expressed greater empathy for families with young children who had to evacuate than for her own circumstances.
