“Trademark resilience and community spirit”

In a Mayoral Minute delivered last week, Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM recognised the efforts of residents, the SES and Council staff in their response to the flood event.

“In the face of this disaster, our community has shown its trademark resilience and community spirit. On behalf of Council, I would like to express our concern for everyone impacted by the situation and thank them for their ongoing cooperation.”

As the river began to rise, a callout for assistance to source and pack sandbags prompted an overwhelming response, with over 100 residents arriving to help. Local businesses also contributed, with Flower Power Penrith and Penrith Quarry Materials sourcing tonnes of sand at short notice for the operation.

In the days that followed, businesses showed their appreciation for the work of the State Emergency Service (SES) and other emergency services, with numerous offers of food and coffee. Offers of assistance extended to affected residents too, such as Greencross Vets who have been assisting flood-affected residents with temporary boarding for their pets.

As the focus shifts to the clean-up and recovery, financial help is also available. Eligible individuals in the Penrith Local Government Area who have been affected by the floods can apply for the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment or Disaster Recovery Allowance.

Image: The banks of the Nepean River