Eumundi Voice Issue 121, 10 July 2025

Rotary

Volunteers rally to support flood-affected communities

Western Qld has faced significant challenges due to severe flooding earlier this year, which has impacted communities, infrastructure and livelihoods. Hundreds of kilometres of fencing have been damaged, and thousands of cattle, sheep, goats and wild animals were lost, with many farmers struggling to get back on their feet. The long-term effect to these communities is worsened by distance, isolation and a lack of available resources.

As a result, Rotary clubs are mobilising to support those impacted by the disaster. The Sunshine Coast Rotary Club Cluster have set up a project to send volunteers to assist BlazeAid – a volunteer-based organisation who assist rural communities affected by natural disasters such as bushfires, cyclones and floods. BlazeAid is focusing on helping property owners in Western Qld rebuild fences and other structures damaged or destroyed by the floods.

It was initially thought that local Rotary clubs would provide volunteers to support BlazeAid with the provision of meals and cleaning. However, volunteers would need to have their own caravan or tent/swag as there is no other accommodation available.

Sarah, a member of the Rotary Club of Buderim decided to volunteer as she had a caravan and could travel to the base camp at Quilpie. They proposed the idea to their President Ken Grant, who agreed and decided to join with his wife Liz.

A departure date of 17 May was set with the aim of spending just over a week on-site before returning to the Sunshine Coast. The BlazeAid team welcomed them warmly, and they quickly realised their roles – the ladies would help with

food preparation, cooking and cleaning, while the men would assist with fencing. Dinner was served at 6pm followed by a daily debriefing. Breakfast was at 6am and food was provided to make sandwiches for lunch. Teams of 4-5 people with a team leader were formed. There was a daily muster at 7am briefing volunteers on the day's planned work and safety instructions. Transport was provided and volunteers could use their own cars if needed.

Ken and Sarah soon adapted to the work, realising the extent of the flood damage. They worked with a team of volunteers from various parts of the country, all eager to help. Everyone at the camp was a volunteer and food and accommodation were provided free of charge.

After their final day's work, they left camp and returned to the Sunshine Coast with a great sense of accomplishment, knowing they had helped those in need during a challenging time. Funds raised by local Rotary clubs are being used for emergency relief, rebuilding efforts, and longterm recovery initiatives. Communities such as Thargomindah, Adavale, Eulo, Jundah, and

surrounding areas have received cash transfers. An initial amount of $49,000 was distributed, followed by an additional $150,000 in debit cards overseen by Rotarians in Longreach and Quilpie.

Furthermore, Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS) has also contributed $50,000 in debit cards which are currently being distributed. Assistance has extended to house contents and essential items, including tools. In collaboration with the hardware shop in Quilpie, starter kits of tools valued at $15,804 have been made available to those requesting them in the Adavale area.

If you wish to assist those in Western Qld, you can volunteer by contacting BlazeAid at: blazeaid. com.au. Alternatively, if you wish to donate visit: directory.rawcs.com.au/33-2023-24.