YourOpinion Reflects on Queenland Disaster
Australians have overcome several natural disasters this summer, from flooding to fires. Your selfless donations on YourOpinion have raised over $10,000 to help those in need! Thank you so much for your donations! Be proud of your contribution.
In continuing to give back to Australian disaster victims, we have extended the “Flood Relief Appeal” into a boarder category of “Australian Disaster Relief”. You can find the updated option on the REWARD OPTIONS page.
Now, we thought we’d share some of the stories and inspirational messages we’ve received in our Flood Relief Appeal Discussion. You can continue to share by sending a message to enquiries@youropinion.com.au or selecting “leave a comment” at the top of this article. Here’s a look at what your fellow members have said…
Members shared their own close encounters with the Queensland Floods:
“On the Saturday following, we had an army of volunteers come to help with the clean up. Barrow loads of tools, stains, paints were wiped out… Queensland weather is “flooding one day, perfect the next” Rob-014
“I live in Yamba and we have been cut of from the world hear for over a week Holiday makers stuck hear and can’t get out .But you got to feel for all in Queensland as they have had it bad .I only moved down hear from QLD 3 years ago and their has been 2 floods since I have been hear.” Barbara-F66
“I live in Gympie Qld and am currently stuck in Griffith NSW as the roads to get home are still closed and or flooded.” Chelle Bea-71A
“I lost my job as a result of the floods in Brisbane. I went back to work as soon as the water had receded and helped with the clean up of the factory which was a muddy mess. Then without warning, in the same week of returning to work, my position was terminated on the spot.” ck-7AE
“Due to recent floods builders and all trades not only that they had no job due to long rainy season majority of materials have been short in supply or non existing. I my self with two painters in my crew had no work for several weeks now due to shortage of material.” Sam-D30
“We were very lucky not to have been caught in the middle of the flash flood in Toowoomba. On the way from Warwick, we were held up by an accident, for 20 minutes, and that saved our lives. It made us 20 minutes late for everything, and so instead of being in the Grand Central Car Park, which was completely inundated, we were waiting out the worst of the rain, lightening and thunder bumpers in the St. Andrew’s Hospital Pharmacy..” Jan-947
Members shared family and friends’ close encounters with the Queensland Floods:
“I have a young daughter who moved to charlton only 6 months ago and already has indirectly gone through 3 floods. Her little farm is safe so she has 3 other affected refugees staying with her also 2 dogs and 2 extra horses to feed. though it is not as catastrophic as the QLD floods they are a small community and also will need our support to survive as some of these people have lost some of their possessions twice….” Elisabeth-7A5
“I wasn’t affected by the floors but my brother was. His whole work was destroyed; the door was even so smashed by the flooding that it didn’t close properly after the floods. Desks, doors, rooms, fridges, microwaves, paperwork, offices were destroyed! They spent days cleaning it, water blasting, ripping up carpet! He is still now without an office, working from co-workers houses!” kate-511
“My father was evacuated from his home on Saturday in Donald. He abandoned his bike in the river and swam the rest of the way across with his heart medication/blood pressure tablets above his head to get to the other side to be reunited with his beloved terrier dog!” Allison-114
“My sister was one of then that was affected by the floods and lost some of her items but most of all her mum die and because of the bad weather she could not get out to come to Sydney.” heather-D16
“We were lucky enough to have 10 family members in 3 different houses rescued from roof tops. But many friends were not so lucky. The rest of Qld has been devastated and I feel for them all especially the ones that have no insurance but please be aware that where as the rest of the state had days warning.” desley-9B4
“We didn’t flood, but our relations did at Chelmer. The water came in so quickly that they were lucky to escape with their lives. My son’s rear bumper bar was dragged off by the force of the water. Then came the cleanup. There is just no comparison between how things have been handled this time and what happened in 1974.” DELROY-132
“I personally haven’t been affected by the floods but a relative of mine as been again in Clunes who is 82 years old. Just got back into her house after September and bought new furniture etc and her house has been flooded again. I personally am so sad for Queensland and Victoria and for the people that have been lost.” jennifer-7B7
Members offered inspiring words to those directly affected by the floods:
“My heart goes out to all those who faced the full brunt of the devastation and had their lives turned upside down. The real tragedy is those who have lost loved ones. Possessions are merely that and can always be replaced, but a life cannot.” Rod-66F
“I think everyone was effected by the floods, either physically or mentally. No one was left untouched, but hopefully this will make us more caring, with our friends, neighbors and perfect strangers. We will come out of this hardship much stronger and united” Toni-FE1
“The flood has brought out the best in thousands, amazing grace in hundreds and the worst in a few people. 
Unsung everyday heroes who simply do what they can to help out then move on without seeking recognition or reward. And the unbelievable hundreds who have had their lives turned upside down and have lost almost everything but can then say that they are ok because there are others who are worse off than themselves. Helping at at an evacuation centre, cleaning out flooded homes and businesses and working in a community recovery centre i have met them all and am very proud of all but the few.” Vic-CC0
“We are aussies and strong so we will go on, however the people who were affected by the Toowoomba hit, my heart goes out to them, no warning and so many lives lost and affected this is the disaster, we only had one death in Brisbane so how lucky are we. I wish all who were affected well from North through to outback and may you have the strength to carry on.” Denise-13C
Members recalled their own experiences with the 1974 Floods:
“I was in the 1974 floods. While they were very bad, these latest floods are more severe. We lived on acreage where there was only tank water & when we wanted water it had to be bucketed out as there was no pressure pumps & hoses couldn’t be used. We had to fill buckets from the tank & carry them into the house & try to broom & shovel the mud out & then wash the floor with the buckets of water while throwing the water over the muddy floor & then try to sweep the mud out.” Pamela-676
“In the 1974 floods my grandparents on my fathers side and mothers homes were flooded in Gracveville, I was 11 and still remember it. I wish a speedy recovery to all people affected by the floods and to those who lost there loved ones I feel deeply for you. We are Australians and we are tough.” Carrie-FB9
“I personally can remember the 1974 floods, just, as I was 4 at the time, and the flooding this time brought back those memories. I do have to though, that if the Wivenhoe Dam had not been built when it wa, then the flooding this time would have been as bad, if not worse than what was suffered. Even though the flood waters were not as deep this time, the aftermath is harder as people who were affected by the ’74 floods must clean up a second time.” Jane-233
“I was a victim of the floods of northern nsw coast….around the Coffs Harbour/Urunga area. I was not insured for floods nor considered it necessary because it had NEVER EVER FLOODED in HISTORY where I was located. I lost 95% of my possessions and had to start again at my own expense. Fortunately…I live in Australia and KNOW THAT I WILL SURVIVE. Material possessions mean nothing…and can always be replaced. It was however most tragic to see memories/photographs/nostalgia/heirlooms lost forever. My mother had just passed away and those family items were difficult to discard. I realize however…in comparison to the recent flooding…..my dramas were very very minor. CHERIE-182
Members explain how they personally have helped with flood relief:
“Although we weren’t affected by floods, we donated when appeal first opened via Telethon.” Carol-221
“Early last year, last week had part of the wall washed away with the rapid pace of overflowing water, and also as an SES volunteer, I have been active with a few long shifts.” Ed-5C4
“I have been totally devastated by the horror of the Qld floods. I cannot possibly comprehend what these families and businesses are going through. I donated $50 and then I had to buy children’s clothes as a newspaper article was saying that they are screaming out for kid’s clothes, toys etc. I could not live with myself if I had not contributed in some way.” susan-CC7
Having a same problem in the 1974 floods, would teach us to be more vigilant and I wish all who were affected well from North through to outback and may we have the strength to carry on.
Bernardo
February 23, 2011 at 9:25 pm
i could not understand why water was not released from wivenhoe dam,when it was half to three quarters full.that was the reason the dam was built–for flood mitigation.
donald norris
May 23, 2011 at 3:52 pm
Ime from nz and have been in qld since1997.I got to know a few folk over the years but nothing could have prepared me for these floods.No one knows the strengths or weaknesses of those arround them untill something catastrophic like this happens.Did I lose anything?No.Did I lose family or friends?No.What I did see though,was a nation that stood[in the ruins],defiant,proud,and steadfast in their bonded unity.They came together for each other and I watched them,full of pride because this is the state that my wife and I chose to live in,back in 1967.These are our friends,our family,and we are so blessed to be among them.kiakaha.all power to our friends and neighbours.
makka
March 3, 2011 at 8:57 pm
I was so sad & worried when the floods hit Qld, the last I knew my baby sister was living in Toowoomba, it took me a week but I found her. She is living in Ipswich & is on high ground. It took a flood to bring us back together we hadn’t spoke for 10yrs prior. I’m thankful for that. And my heart goes out to all those Families that lost every thing, and all the animals that didn’t make it to make thing worst You get hit by a devastating cyclone Queenslander thing can only get better. Does your premier want to run this country cause I would vote for her.
wendy
March 6, 2011 at 2:55 am
I feel so sorry to them. They did nothing wrong and received such a big punishment! I live at a very small town before I come to Melbourne. It’s always flooded every year! I can feel same feeling for this huge disaster from these victims!! I wish I could be there and help them to get rid off this disaster! Queensland is a good place but now become an ocean land! I hope everything will be fine soon!
F
March 26, 2011 at 8:42 pm
i relly feel disappointed about queensland victims.because their house and other property going damage in flood.my feelings r so lovable and pity on thee victims othr states in australia will be needed to collaborate and support very quikely and with responsibility.
raza ali
April 5, 2011 at 10:57 am
as a ses volonteer i know how much Qld has gone through and how much they lost also how much they stillgot to deal with mentally and money wise lets the powers to be pull ther finger out
danny
April 12, 2011 at 6:43 pm
Danny with you been a ses volunteer you should know how the government it so slow exspecially federal. They only say & promise thing at the time everyone is paying attention to look good when things die down they think we forget. but if the people band together and make sure they don’t, one person can be swept aside but a bunch of people will make them take notice. To all you Queenslanders Make god be with you as I believe you don’t deserve what mother nature unleash on you. But I don’t believe anyone deserve that kind of life threatening stess.
wendy
April 13, 2011 at 9:16 pm
Danny, I’m from Oxley & have many friends in Goodna, Ipswich & Toowoomba. Since your an SES volenteer, i just want to say THANK YOU!
paula
May 25, 2011 at 1:09 pm
Govenment know should hold up there end of the bargan
and get together with the people who lost there homes and every thing else no more pussy footeing around help these people get back on to there normal life every bodys in the same boat if this happens to them to not only queensland every body who lives in a town or a forrest as well weather it rains burns or floods .its natures way of life .you carnt stop it
judithearl
April 13, 2011 at 12:21 pm
It is absolutely imperative that the Federal Government implement the Bradfield Plan (revised 2010). The Bradfield Plan will massively alleviate the dreadful flooding of QLD & NSW, whilst addressing the droughts of Victoria.
If readers have not heard of the Bradfield Plan, google it. It makes more sense now than ever before.
Although the implementation cost is high, all of Eastern Australia benefits and it beats all the ‘faffing around’ and massive wastage of millions every year by the Australian Government – Federal and State. The Bradfield Plan – check it out.
Babs
April 18, 2011 at 2:53 pm
why every thing i want i cant reach to it
sammbo
April 24, 2011 at 9:25 am
Living in the Lochyer Vally, we were part of the devistation as a result of the floods,.Although I lost a lot of material things, my 21 year old cat was washed away .This was for me a tragety but nothing like many others who lost everything including their loved ones. Bless them all ..
Coralie Boyd
April 25, 2011 at 6:08 pm
I agree with you Coralie, when I see disaters like this generally the first thing I think off is everybodies pet that have no way of escape these dangers with owners at work of busy tring to survive themselves,So to all who lst their beloved friends my heart dose go out to you all.
wendy
April 28, 2011 at 7:44 am
I live in Southern NSW, Socially we raised $470 for the flood relief, I know that pales in significance to what others raised,,,,but it was a great effort….my employer matched our contribution and they donated $100,000 as a corporate donor…..hopefully the money finds its way to those that need it most
Ed
April 26, 2011 at 9:10 pm
Cyclones in townsville, hurricanes and also earthquakes, all in australia not in the world…O.M.G
Erica
May 9, 2011 at 10:10 am
My husband and I have family in Toowoomba, Helidon, Brisbane, Gold Coast and Gladstone. It seemed like as one place was hit another one popped up on the list. I am very happy to say that none of our family or friends were injured or lost anything in any of these events. Needless to say, It is heartbreaking for the loss of lives. What is warming is the way the Australian public come out and help in these situations.
Lara
May 10, 2011 at 10:09 pm
I live at Holland Park and while we were not affected, I was glued to my television from the very first moment I saw the images of the Brisbane River raging down towards the sea and overflowing and rising. I first saw it on TV the morning/day before they were waiting for the water level to peak. I just couldn’t believe my eyes. It seemed so surreal that a terrible disaster was happening in Brisbane. I thought I was in like the safest place in the world.
I was affected in some way because then we were told everyone had to boil their water to protect against diseases. Shops all around me went bare of supplies and I had no food at that stage. One of my friends lives in West End and she was not affected by rising water but by the anount of rain that had come down and she couldn’t find any tradesmen and she had to put tarps up to cover walls that were ready to fall down.
Douglas
May 13, 2011 at 2:23 pm
The area impacted by the floods in terms of Australia alone is immense taking into account financial implications and demographics where entire communities will not be re established in the same area. This is not dissimilar to events worldwide over the recent decade. More recently there has been dramatic human casualties in relation to Tsunami activities in Asia, demographic and human / environmental casualties associated with the earthquake in Japan and demographic influences of the earthquake in Spain where an entire city sustained damage.
The events worldwide within the recent decade (most topical being earthquakes in Japan and Spain, Tsunami in Asia, floods – Europe and Slavic countries, rising sea level impacting upon Pacific Islands and tempests – USA) are all indicative of a changing pattern of our earth which must be taken into account in the future. There is an old saying – if you want to see the future, look to the past.
Chris Clarke
May 15, 2011 at 12:33 pm
So sad about all the floods around Qld and elsewhere. The other sad part is those that took advantage of the Govt monies for ‘flood relief’ purposes and were ripping us off. I know some in our rural area who were NOT affected by the floods but claimed it anyway. Sad, so sad.
wendel54
May 18, 2011 at 4:47 pm
I really feel for all the people in the Queensland Disaster, watching that water flowing/sorry rushing and roaring through the villages, towns and Brisbane. Who could imagine we in Australia would suffer such a terrible event,
We are more used to hearing this kind of situation happening overseas but to watch people being rescued from rooftop after rooftop was just almost unbelievable.
Now to realise after all this time people are still suffering and their terrible situation has not for everyone been made good.
Now today I heard on the news that the people in Victoria, who not only were unfortunate to have all their homes and farms were flooded.They are still flooded from 1st flood.
I always was so proud that Australia sorted these problems quickly. People were always rescued never being left for months for their problems to be quickly solved. It is so poor really that in this day and age the Gov. has not fully backed these people problems with the Insurance Companies or whatever else they need in respect to being housed again.
Today on ABC radio there was a Climatologist talking and he said we can look to more rain falling in the Northern parts of Australia. He said it is already falling a little more but that is how the weather pattern will be in the future.
Is any one preparing for more & heavier rain in the north of Australia? Are we just going to see more problems like Brisbane or has anyone just written off as a 100 year storm?
Alicia
May 20, 2011 at 6:19 pm
Bringing back memories when I read these stories so let me share with you my sister in Ipswich whose whole house went under the floods up to the roof. They only had an hour to evacuate,and everything was gone,I live in Griffith NSW and couldnt get up there to help out until the airport opened.I have never seen such devastation and it was one of the toughest times in my families lives,she also had to be put on a boat to go to hospital to give birth,as she was flooded in her brother in laws place.Amazingly a stranger took my sister on his little tinny boat across the floodwaters where my other sister picked her up and went staright to hospital.My sister is still in the rebuilding stages as of course insurance didnt cover, but the outstanding generosity of the people in Qld were touched by our whole family,donations coming from everywhere,food,money,furniture,almost everything.My workmates here at Baiada put together $2000 in one week for me to take to my sister to help,which brings me to the greatest love all people have in times of need,something I will never forget.God Bless Us All
Alofa Afamasaga
May 20, 2011 at 8:39 pm
I have family who live in Bundaberg and on the Gold Coast and both were lucky enough not to have sustained any physical damage during the floods. Although they were down here in NSW in December and trying to get home proved to be a bit daunting to say the least as there were a lot of road closures both along the coastal areas and inland, so I was calling the relevant emergency services and then calling my family to advise which roads they should take to get home.
Cheryl Graham
May 22, 2011 at 8:39 am
The Queensland floods as well as the other recent Australin (and overseas disasters) all point to the facts that (a) our governments haven’t done nearly enough to prepare us for such events and need to develop much better policies and management structures, and (b) whatever we do it will never be enough. But it did reveal the big hearts of fellow Australians!
John Shacklock
May 27, 2011 at 5:18 pm
I am very sorry for the people involved in the Qld disaster but don’t forget there were other people in borthern Nsw involved who have received little interest or publisity.I have been involved in 3 floods & it is no fun, but I managed to help myself with no Government or public help& the Insurance Co was not very helpful either.If people choose to live in flood pron places & insist on clearing the land of trees & native flora then we should expect these disasters & accept them
H Long
HELEn LONG
May 28, 2011 at 12:58 pm
We lost nearly everything in the flood and were cut off for four days. I had a $20.00 peg bag that my husband bought for me, it was hanging on the line on the Friday when we got back in the house, but was gone the next day. I know it was only a little thing, but our piano, all our music,my opera scores, my husbands choral music, a lot of which was no longer in print, all our white goods, everything had to be tossed out, and they stole one of the few things that survived the flood. I don’t understand.
M Woods
June 1, 2011 at 11:54 am
A big cherio to all the ses workers & nameless faces that all did there bit in the clean up WELL DONE
andrew
June 1, 2011 at 1:50 pm
The Queensland flood disaster was tradgic!! Many lives were affected and many lost!! I am very proud of how many true Aussies came to the aid to help those in need without asking for anything in return, true Aussie spirit. At the time I was working in a small country town in NSW we held fund raisers although it wasn’t much it felt good to be able to give to those who needed it, I wish I was able to physically help those in need. The one thing I’m disgusted in the poor financial help from our government!! They seem to be able to send more money overseas than to help their own country! My hat goes up to all the people that solidered through the disasters Queensland was hit with and the many people that traveled to help!! It’s people like you that makes you proud to be an Australian
Alecia
July 15, 2011 at 3:27 pm