Andrew Gee (Calare, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Twelve months ago, on 14 November 2022, torrents of water tragically tore through the usually quiet country communities of Eugowra, Molong, Canowindra, Cudal, Manildra and Wellington, causing complete and utter destruction and devastation. In Eugowra, over 90 per cent of homes were destroyed or damaged. Many thought the town would cease to exist, but the Eugowra spirit shone through.

This time tomorrow, I'll be back on the ground with residents to mark the anniversary of this tragedy. It will be a time of sad and solemn reflection. The pain of that day is still very real and very raw for our residents. Many are still in pods or caravans, and businesses are still closed amid the widespread insurance knockbacks. For the last 12 months I've been fighting for proper disaster funding for our residents, and I'm both pleased and relieved that both the state and federal governments have finally agreed to a combined $100 million for our communities.

On this tragic anniversary, I would like to sincerely thank and acknowledge all the first responders, the emergency services personnel and the many, many truly heroic community members who did so much to save so many on that awful day. Our hearts and deepest sympathies go out to the friends, family and loved ones of Dianne Smith and Les Vugec, who tragically lost their lives in this disaster. They were both greatly loved and are greatly missed. They will never be forgotten. Tomorrow the thoughts of our nation will be with Eugowra and the communities of the Central West.