We all witnessed the tragedy unfold early this year as towns across Northern NSW were inundated with unprecedented rain fall causing a one in 1000-year flood. The community continues to endure the aftermath of this disaster however the shining light through this devastation has been the comradery, community and sense of giving from all Australians.

Royal Life Saving and our aquatic apparel partner Badge of Honour donated outdoor jackets to staff at Richmond Valley Aquatics and Lismore City Council to assist in their ongoing flood recovery works within these severely impacted communities.

Chief Operations Office of Badge of Honour, Sally Snow was keen to assist with the provision of resources for the teams working on the ground.

“This is really just a small gesture of appreciation for the efforts and the work they are doing to get these flood-stricken communities back on their feet” Ms Snow said.

Facilities at Woodburn and Coraki in Richmond Valley and Lismore Memorial Baths were underwater and the ongoing clean up and repair work is underway.

Teams at both pools provided immediate assistance where both Coraki and Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre in the Lismore LGA were set up as evacuation centres and food pantry sites.

Jason Phillips, RLS Regional Manager meet with local pool managers and staff to present the jackets and say thank you on behalf of Badge of Honour.

“Our local swimming pools are often the hub of community activity and engagement, especially in small towns and villages. Some of these pools were hit extremely hard during these flood events, with staff having to deal with not only the clean-up, but the reactivation of business as well as supporting the local community during this disaster” Mr Phillips said.

Floods continue to impact parts of Australia, it’s important to be informed and have a plan to stay safe. For more information on how to stay safe around flood waters visit How to stay safe | Royal Life Saving Society - Australia

Contact our Northern office via email: northern@royalnsw.com.au or call (02) 6651 6266 for more information and how to help.