DISASTER Relief Australia volunteers returned to the region last week to provide further assistance to flood affected communities.
The veteran-led organisation is helping residents continue to rebuild after devastating floods in May this year.
More than 500 volunteers deployed for several weeks in June and July at the request of the NSW Government.
They will now return on a smaller scale to provide more help with debris removal, repairs and flood recovery tasks in and around the Taree area.
Funded with the support of Disaster Relief Australia partner NAB Foundation, Operation Locke 2.0 will run for two weeks with approximately 30 volunteers on the ground each week in seven-day rotations.
In addition to supporting recovery efforts, Disaster Relief Australia volunteers will also lead and facilitate the efforts of corporate and community volunteers who want to help in their own back yard.
Disaster Relief Australia Chief Executive Officer Dave Smith AM, CSC, DSM said the organisation welcomes the opportunity to return to the area and provide ongoing support for long-term disaster recovery.
“Our volunteers were on the ground towards the end of the response phase of this disaster to work alongside the NSW SES,” he said.
“Our ability to deploy rapidly expedited the transition into recovery and our volunteers made significant progress in helping communities begin to recover and rebuild.
“Our initial tasking was at the request of the NSW Government via the National Emergency Recovery Agency.
“This time, our return is supported by our partner NAB Foundation and we will assist residents and Mid Coast Council with various tasks.
“We appreciate the opportunity to return to this area and further help.
“Our veteran volunteers have the skills and experience to coordinate efficient and cost-effective recovery efforts, and we are honoured to be able to return and assist in such a tangible and practical way.”
Established in 2016, Disaster Relief Australia unites the skills and experience of veterans and motivated Australians to help communities prepare for and recover from disaster.
Volunteers receive training, leadership opportunities, and the chance to serve alongside like-minded individuals who are committed to helping others in times of crisis.
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