Tweed residents are reflecting on the flood events of February and March 2022, as the one year anniversary of the tragedy arrives – marking a year since the worst floods in the region’s recorded history left a trail of destruction.
The floods left a plethora of physical, financial and emotional damage throughout the Tweed community. .
12 months on, just as the community came together after the flood waters receded to help with the clean-up, the community will come together once again to remember the events of 2022.
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 several activities designed to offer support and encouragement.
The community is invited to a reflection ceremony at Nicoll Park in Murwillumbah on 28 February 2023, a symbolic action to help residents make peace with the Tweed River.
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,” Mayor 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.
Mayor Cherry said Council acknowledges 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 the community 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,” Mayor Cherry said.
Events being held include:
27 February – 4 March 2023
Disaster Recovery of Personal Stories (DROPS)
Murwillumbah Civic Centre auditorium, 10-14 Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah
The Red Cross and Tweed Shire Council are providing an opportunity for the community to share their own 2022 flood experiences though words or by adding to an art installation at the Civic Centre during the week, starting on 27 February 2023 and running until 4 March.
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 will receive a free seedling.
For more information, visit facebook.com/redcrossauestweedbyron
28 February 2023
Business Kingscliff
Salt Bar, 1 Bells Boulevarde, Kingscliff
Business Kingscliff is inviting everyone to a free community breakfast, sponsored by the Salt Bar. The morning will also feature Tweed musician Ollie Twohill performing his new single, Washed Away, based on the experiences of people directly impacted by the 2022 floods.
For catering purposes, please RSVP to info@kingscliffchamber.com.au
Making peace with the river
Nicoll Park, 5 Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah (adjacent to the Coolamon Centre)
Led by Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry, this symbolic event provides an opportunity for the community to make their peace with the river by the ceremonial casting of flowers into the water. Free flowers and morning tea will be provided.
Chinderah Community Hub BBQ
Unit 23, 18 Ozone Street, Chinderah
A free community barbeque and get together will be held at the Chinderah Community Hub.
Hub 2484 Community Gathering
Shop 7, Palm Court, 41 – 45 Murwillumbah Street, Murwillumbah
A community gathering will be held at Hub 2484. This will be a barbecue dinner and will feature music, crafting and board games for the children.
For details visit facebook.com/hub2484
4 March 2023
Pottsville Community Resilience Together Community Get-Together
St Mark’s Anglican Church gardens, 15A Coronation Avenue, Pottsville
The Pottsville Community Resilience/Together Pottsville group will be holding a free community event in the Anglican Church grounds. The event will include community gardening, a clean-up of the area ahead of the annual Clean Up Australia Day, and a barbecue will commence from 10 am. This is an alcohol-free event.
For details email togetherpottsville@gmail.com
Feature Image: The community is invited to help make peace with the river, by participating in a ceremonial event where the Mayor and others will cast flowers into the river. Image provided by Tweed Shire Council.
