Ross Cadell (NSW, National Party) Share this | Hansard source

I would like to thank everyone in this chamber and colleagues in the other place for the enormous support across the political divide in acknowledging the devastating floods across all of the eastern states but more so in my home state of New South Wales. To the people who live on the catchments of the Namoi, Macquarie, Bogan, Lachlan, Murrumbidgee, Tumut, Murray, Edward, Culgoa, Birrie, Narran, Warrego, Paroo, Barwon, Darling, Snowy River and Mirrool Creek. I know nothing said here can replace the lost family photos and heirlooms, the lost crops and stock, the lost homes and businesses or the mental anguish many people are going through.

I want to pay tribute to the community effort, those who got out to help their neighbours and their friends, all those that travelled to assist and the many, many volunteers from the SES, police, Fire and Rescue and also Defence, who rolled up their sleeves and did everything to help with the flood rescue, including filling sandbags. Talking to local residents, I have heard of the mental and emotional strain of the vast amount of damage to homes, businesses and farms. Our regional communities have been through hell and, as the floodwaters subside, we are just starting to see the true state of the clean-up that is required. People are built tough in the regions but this flood has really tested many and has even pushed some right to the very edge. They appreciate knowing that all in this place are here for them when they need them and together, with that support, that will help them get through this disaster.