|
Recent floods in northern NSW caused major damage to homes, business and local infrastructure. Also washed away were months of planning for the "The Big River Ride" which had to be cancelled as the course roads were under water. Organiser Andy Stephens shared his story with Bicycle NSW:"I worked 6 days straight in my role with SES, rescuing people, animals and boats, using huge fire trucks, 6-wheel drive tractors and our SES floodboat.."I then worked part time every day on clean up and minor jobs. For example, yesterday I steered the Red Cross around the village to affected households, and this morning I salvaged the local postmaster's runabout and outboard, which had sunk at its mooring."My small SES Unit at Brushgrove has completed 56 jobs now, with only one pending. We are all very tired, but are having our post-mortem tonight."My own home and boat are all fine. My wife Dr Jo ran the communications(3 phones, fax and radio) for our SES Unit, but has now returned to work as a GP in Maclean. No rest for the weary."The rain is belting down as I type, so I hope we do not get too much more. A few pics attached for your info."The Big River Ride has yet to be rescheduled, as we can not find a suitable spot in the calendar, due to prior absences overseas of committee members and riders. We will organise something soon, even if it is a shorter version."We are in the process of refunding riders' registration costs, as well as sending them the unique BRR polo shirt (collectors item?). We intend keeping the welcome packs, minus the shirts for the re-scheduled event, if that is ok with you."If you are interested in taking part in the rescheduled ride you can get more information by contacting nds@westnet.com.au or Ph: 0409 664511
|
|
