At the height of the recent extreme weather experienced throughout NSW, there were more than 150 flood warnings in place, 40 of which were at emergency level.
More than 100 schools were closed because of the floods, and thousands of homes and businesses were without
power.
Evacuation centres were opened for those fleeing the flooding.
On 18 May, parts of NSW were declared natural disaster zones.
Our communities were enduring devastation on a scale never seen.
In the hardest hit areas, stories were emerging of our colleagues and community members who had lost their
homes.
Our Anglican Care, Samaritans and Newcastle Anglican Schools services were significantly affected, particularly
around Taree and Kempsey.
Throughout the following weeks we were deeply heartened by the unwavering spirit of our Newcastle Anglican family, through the toughest of times.
We had care staff being transported to Bishop Tyrrell Place by SES boat, teachers staying with MVAC students whose families were isolated by floodwater, and support staff arriving for their shifts at Supported Independent Living (SILs) facilities knowing they wouldn’t be able to get home.
Our staff and volunteers continued to display great resilience, determination and care to ensure the ongoing safety of the people we support.
We prayed for the tireless work of our people, as well as emergency workers and first responders as they guarded and saved lives.
We were also very appreciative of the many well wishes, offers of support, and prayers we continued to receive from across the diocese and the wider Anglican family.
As our communities come to grips with the long-lasting impacts of the natural disaster, we continue to be deeply grateful to the teams working tirelessly to support those affected.
We know this work will continue for some time.
– Bishop Peter Stuart and John Barriga
*The Australian Government is offering disaster assistance to those affected by the flooding in May 2025.
To check your eligibility, visit the Services Australia website.
If you need support from us, please reach out to:
- Our EAP on 1300 307 912
- Your manager
- Your People and Culture Business
Partner.
