Last month three firefighters from Gundagai plus a member from the Yass crew were deployed to assist with ongoing flood relief in the Port Macquarie and Taree areas.
Strike Team Papa consisted of 4 trucks and crew members from Gundagai, Nowra, Bathurst and Orange and left on May 31 and returned on June 6. The Crew was led by a Strike Team Leader from Sydney.
The tanker and crew were deployed for 7 days and were tasked with various flood recovery and clean-up jobs.
Firefighter Luke Manton who led the Gundagai crew part of Strike Team Papa said the deployment was both humbling and confronting.
“Among the heartbreak, there were some heart-warming moments. We heard incredible stories of resilience and community spirit, with neighbours supporting each other and showing immense strength during these difficult times.”
“The scale of devastation was both confronting and humbling. We met families who had lost nearly everything yet were still greeting us with gratitude and resilience,” Luke said.
“The strength of these communities in the face of such hardship is truly inspiring, and it reminds us why we do what we do. We are incredibly proud to have been part of the effort and recovery,” Luke said.
Strike Team Papa also had the opportunity to assist a small group of residents north of Taree who had been doing it tough during the deployment.
“We were approached by the local CWA and Anglican Church offering to help anyone we came across who might be struggling to get back on their feet. We were able to connect that support with residents in real need, a moment that truly demonstrated the power of community,” Luke said.
“I couldn’t be prouder of the Strike Team Papa Crew. It’s not just about the jobs we do; it’s about the people we meet and the lives we touch along the way,” Luke said.
After 7 days of hard, emotional and incredibly rewarding work supporting flood-affected communities in the Taree region, all members returned to their home stations a little weary, but immensely proud of what they were able to contribute.
“Gundagai Crews would like to extend a huge thank you to the dedicated crews from every station involved. From the Hazmat decontamination teams to the comms and mechanical crews, the amazing chefs, and catering staff, and the RFS members who operated the portable base camp in Port Macquarie, thank you. The behind-the-scenes work allowed us to stay focused and help those in need.”
“We are proud to wear the uniform and even prouder to represent Gundagai wherever we go,” Luke said.
-Emily Flint
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