Oscar said it was evident from Victoria’s bushfire experiences that recovery post-natural disaster could take up to five years, and so ongoing support was vital to assist people to re-build their lives and themselves, both physically and mentally.
This year Oscar and Danielle have been alongside people, particularly those from Rochester, helping them navigate insurance claims, apply for and access government grants, deal with tradespeople, link with mental healthcare and even find housing.
“Every client is different, with different needs,” Oscar said. “And we’ve worked with a lot people who wouldn’t usually engage with services. So, lots of farmers who wouldn’t have engaged with services prior to the floods.
“As well as helping people navigate the practical elements of recovery, we’ve provided people with an ear to listen. We’ve been with them through the journey of recovery, and that’s been really important.”
Oscar said his role was also providing more insight into what individuals and communities needed in the aftermath of disaster.
“It’s a new and ever-evolving role, and with the way things are looking with climate change, it sadly seems like there will be an ongoing need for this type of service, whether it be in response to bushfire, or flood or other sorts of natural disasters.
“We’ve learnt about the importance of ongoing support and having a program that’s able to evolve and have a lasting impact on the community.”
Oscar said 12 months on, Rochester was still living with the effects of the flood each day. Houses sit gutted, businesses closed and shopfronts empty. There are shipping containers in backyards, and tradespeople working in every street.
“It’s a fine line with an anniversary, especially in a disaster sense,” he says. “You walk the tightrope of triggering people by talking about it, but others feel it’s cathartic to acknowledge their journey. It’s about knowing your clients.”
Oscar and Danielle are looking forward to catching up with clients in a more casual way this Saturday, October 14, at Rochella
“It’s a celebration of how strong rural communities can be with supporting each other,” Oscar said. “It’ll be a good day for the community.” If you find yourself experiencing persisting strong emotions as a result of the floods, remember talking about your worries and feelings makes them more manageable. If you need help, you can: Photograph of Rochester’s Shamrock Hotel by Mattinbgn Creative Commons license
