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Boots on the ground, hands clearing debris and spirits uplifted – the deployment of ADF personnel on the Tweed has been warmly welcomed by residents and businesses impacted by the devastating floods.
More than 1,000 Army, Navy and Air Force personnel were deployed to the Tweed at the height of the clean-up, before being reassigned or returning to their home bases.
Their presence on the Tweed provided a major boost to the many people who were shattered by successive floods in February and in March.
The sight of men and women in uniform, working in challenging conditions, to remove flood debris, contaminated soils and fill, flood-damaged vehicles and opening up access and clearing roads was greatly appreciated.
Mayor of Tweed Chris Cherry said on behalf of residents and Council, she wanted to thank the ADF personnel who had provided such tremendous support physically and mentally to those impacted by the floods.
“The men and women of the ADF were inspirational in the way they went about their tasks at hand,” Cr Cherry said.
“Their support for Council crews in the clean-up and recovery has been crucial in so many ways.
“ADF personnel and their equipment were welcome sights in our communities and some strong and enduring friendships were made during their time here on the Tweed.
“They have done their country proud and we are grateful for their efforts.”
Apart from major jobs, ADF personnel were also involved in aerial assessment of roads and properties, accessing isolated communities, cleaning out residences and businesses, cleaning playground equipment, helping to relocate donation hub sites, dislodging a shipping container from beneath Murwillumbah Bridge, clearing bridges and roadways, sorting waste at the Tip, assisting land owners and much more.
The ADF also deployed a padre to provide moral support during the crisis.
Council has prepared a pictorial tribute to the ADF personnel to thank them for the work they did in helping the Tweed recover from the flood. Visit Tweed thanks ADF.
