ONE of the great things about country communities is the way they come together when times are tough.
We see the best of us, the worse things get.
As the floods have inundated crops and properties throughout Sunraysia, some incredible stories have emerged over the past month of Aussie mateship in times of need.
Take Robert and Tracey Richardson, the Red Cliffs couple who received an overwhelming response to their plea for help as the rising Murray River threatened to inundate their house and storage shed.
Volunteers came out of the woodwork after a passer-by noticed the perilous situation and posted a call to arms on Facebook.
Literally, within hours, Robert had volunteers on his doorstep, ready to build an 80 to 100-metre levee between his property and the rising river.
Neighbours and family friends pitched in, but also complete strangers.
One local bloke, Luke Moore, brought his Bobcat and worked dawn to dusk to help out the couple, just because he could.
I’ve heard so many similar stories over the past few weeks that warm the heart.
They are the stories that remind us about what is special about living in the country, and the sense of community we share.
We are not alone in that.
During these historic floods, which will be spoken about for generations, there are countless examples of country resilience in river communities like ours.
And some of that kindness has extended to people in the city, who have offered support in many and varied ways.
Just last week, a truckload of presents and donated toys arrived in the small town of Moulamein to spread some Christmas cheer to dozens of families that have been isolated by floodwaters.
Moulamein was evacuated on November 22, and all roads were closed until last week.
The reopening allowed Melbourne grandfather Dave Theodolou to bring his loaded truck to town.
The gift drive was the brainchild of Dave’s wife Heather, who had spent two weeks buying and wrapping gifts for more than 130 children – from babies to teenagers – after putting a call out on social media for details.
Mrs Theodolou told The Guardian in Swan Hill that her husband had camped at Moulamein with friends each March for the past 55 years.
Three weeks ago, a friend sent them a photo showing Mr Theodolou’s favourite camping spot, “his happy place”, underwater.
She was horrified to think children in the area might miss out on Christmas.
“The original plan was I wanted to take up a trailer-load of toys, but it’s gone past that,” she said.
“I want the kids to get these Christmas morning. I want Santa to come for them.”
At the time of writing, the tally had risen to 140 children aged up to 17 from 51 families who will receive something from the heart on Christmas Day.
Now that’s a story of giving.
Country people understand that living in this harsh, beautiful country comes with its challenges.
The Murray River in flood is a wondrous sight, a dangerous and powerful force that has required enormous community spirit to contain where possible. Thanks to all the SES volunteers, the emergency service personnel and other professionals who have stepped up and faced adversity head on over the past few months. It has been inspiring.
From the staff at Sunraysia Daily, thanks also to our readers and advertisers for your loyal support in 2022.
And from all of us, have a safe and happy Christmas.
