Flood rescues end as SES hands over to recovery teams

THE NSW State Emergency Service has officially ended its operational flood response on the Mid North Coast after attending nearly 9000 incidents and carrying out more than 800 rescues since May 14.

Floodwaters reached record levels in several areas, including in Taree, where the Manning River exceeded a century-old benchmark.

During the response, SES volunteers conducted hundreds of rescues and delivered essential supplies to isolated communities, including food, water and medicine.

Hundreds more emergency service partners and community members helped with damage assessments and the clean-up of flood-affected homes.

Lismore MP and minister for recovery Janelle Saffin said SES teams had saved lives.

“A big thank you to the SES for the work they did in response to the floods. The work that they did saved lives,” Ms Saffin said.

“We already have teams on the ground from the NSW Reconstruction Authority helping people get back on their feet so they can return to their daily lives.

“We have appointed former NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Dave Owens as Recovery Coordinator responsible for co-ordinating clean-up and repair efforts in the affected communities.”

The SES also thanked its partner agencies, including the NSW Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Police, NSW Ambulance, Surf Life Saving NSW, Marine Rescue NSW and VRA Rescue NSW.

Residents affected by the floods can now apply for financial assistance, including a one-off payment of $180 per person or up to $900 per household to help cover the cost of essentials like food, clothing, medicines and emergency accommodation.

For more information on impacted suburbs and to prepare to apply, visit service.nsw.gov.au/east-coast-personal-hardship