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It will be a time of mixed emotions and memories for Tweed residents next week as the community remembers the flood events of February and March 2022.
The biggest floods in the Tweed's recorded history left behind a trail of destruction, physically, financially and emotionally.
Now, 12 months on, the flood recovery continues and not just in a physical sense. Just as the community came together after the flood waters receded to help with the clean-up, next week the community is encouraged to come together once again to help with the emotional rebuilding of lives.
Several events are planned, each allowing individuals, families and groups to not only reflect on the events of 2022 but also to come together to move forward.
From community get-togethers to individual opportunities to relate experiences and emotions in simple ways, there are activities designed to offer support and encouragement.
The community is invited to a reflection ceremony at Nicoll Park in Murwillumbah at 11:30 am on Tuesday 28 February, a symbolic action to help us make peace with the Tweed River. Refreshments will be provided to encourage a cuppa and a chat.
Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry said this small and brief community gathering was one way to acknowledge and mark the milestone.
"We will be casting flowers into the water to let go and to make peace with the river, which flows through and unites our Shire and gives life to the Tweed," Cr Cherry said.
"The idea of this is a personal moment to honour the river and the connections it brings, whether it is the creek on your farm, your favourite swimming hole or the wide river where all the waters meet. Let's take a moment to embrace its beauty again.
"If you feel this simple symbolic gesture would be of benefit to you and your recovery, please come along and cast out flowers for a fresh start and hope for the future.
"We acknowledge everyone's journey is different, and some affected by the flood may be starting this second year feeling emotionally drained as well as lacking certainty about their future. But we are here to help each other and to provide a shoulder to lean on if needed.
"Flowers will be provided or if you would prefer to bring your own flowers (perhaps from your garden which may have been flooded a year ago) you are encouraged to do so. If you are unable to attend, you could do this simple ceremony yourself, in your own time with your loved ones."
Other events being held during the week will include:
Monday, 27 February – Saturday 4 March 2023
Disaster Recovery of Personal Stories (DROPS)
Murwillumbah Civic Centre auditorium, 10-14 Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah
Mon – Fri, 10 am – 2 pm, Sat, 9 am – 12 pm
The Red Cross and Tweed Shire Council are providing an opportunity for the community to share their own 2022 flood experiences though words or adding to an art installation at the Civic Centre during the week, starting on Monday 27 February 2023 and running until Saturday 4 March. This community event will be open to participants from 10 am to 2 pm from Monday to Friday and from 9 am to 12 pm on Saturday. This is open to all residents of the Tweed Shire and people who supported in the clean-up and recovery who can participate through a drawing, story, poem, song or reflection. In the spirit of renewal and growth, the first 50 participants daily with receive a free seedling.
