DUNGOG has marked 10 years since a deadly storm claimed three lives and devastated parts of the community.
The disaster, on the morning of 21 April, 2015, has been remembered during a solemn reflection ceremony and a community art exhibition.
The “super-storm” dumped more than 300 millimetres of rain on the region.
Water from Myall Creek surged into homes and businesses, cutting off the township.
Nina Williams, a familiar face at the Services Australia agency in the Dungog Community Centre, recalled the resilience shown by locals.
“When there’s a natural disaster, the community really gets together and helps out,” she said.
“It’s not until those times that you realise how much resilience and resourcefulness a small community has.”
Nina said that the centre became a safe haven for many, even after the official recovery centre opened.
“They came back to the community centre because they knew the people, and they didn’t have to re-tell their story all over again.”
Dungog bore the brunt of the unprecedented flooding, but a decade later, the community is better prepared.
All recommendations from a 2017 coronial inquest have been implemented, including the installation of a flood monitoring system along Myall Creek.
The NSW SES has also increased volunteer training and upgraded equipment availability across the Hunter region.
In partnership with Dungog Shire Council, the SES has finalised a Local Flood Emergency Sub Plan to improve prevention, response, and recovery efforts for future flooding events.
Creative expression has also been an important part of the town’s healing journey.
On the first anniversary in 2016, the Project Bounce Forward exhibition captured residents impacted by the flood, posing with words that reflected their resilience.
To mark the 10th anniversary, the images have returned to the local library for a special week-long display.
A community reflection and memorial service was also held at Dungog’s Anglican Church on Monday.
As Dungog reflects on the events of 2015, its community stands as a powerful reminder of strength, recovery, and resilience in the face of tragedy.
By Shannon BENTON
