New resilience and preparedness charity launches in Murwillumbah

COMMUNITY charity Murwillumbah CORE Inc. (Community Organised Resilience Effort) launched last month and is seeking expressions of interest from Murwillumbah residents to contribute as street and zone leaders in flood-prone areas.

Formerly known as HUB2484, M|CORE evolved from the immediate aftermath of the 2022 floods, when HUB2484 and its scores of volunteers supported thousands of people affected in various ways by the weather event.

The newly incorporated association aims to extend beyond immediate disaster response and focus on a clear mission to encompass disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

“We strive for permanence, aiming to secure a dedicated space where the community can find support during all phases of disaster,” M|CORE’s statement said.

M|CORE president and treasurer Katrina Semple was a highly appreciative recipient of the support she received in 2022.

“After the flood, I was so overwhelmed by shock and fatigue that I could not have done that massive clean-up on my own,” Semple said.

“HUB2484 was my lifeline to help. They were responsible for directing volunteers to my home until the job was done and reassuring me that I was not alone.

“I was so grateful to them that I was happy to join the board as treasurer,” she said.

M|CORE’s Stronger Together program aims to have multiple leaders in the community in identified high-flood zones.

Street and zone leaders will be trained and supplied with essentials, including communications systems, power generation and cleaning equipment.

Other resources during an event response phase may include items such as gazebos, tables, chairs, generators, walkie-talkies, portable power packs and general donated supplies.

A variety of roles and responsibilities are available, including volunteering, leadership, donating money and resources, and advocating.

M|CORE received funding through the NSW Government Local Small Commitments Allocation Program.

More detailed information and resources can be found at mcore2484.org