I’m sure by now you will have heard about the tragedy that has struck Queensland, and that has devastated such a massive part of our country, destroying so many lives, and people’s property and livelihood. I am so saddened hearing people’s stories, and coming to terms with the scale of this disaster.
Personally, I feel very fortunate that our apartment building was undamaged, despite being directly on Brisbane river, that we were able to get our car and bikes out of the carpark before it went under, that we were able to remove most of our belongings and bring them to our new house, evacuating before all power, water and gas was shut off to the building.
Here are some photos I snapped from our balcony on Thursday when we went back to check on the place and grab a few more things.
The corner of Coronation Drive and the Inner City Bypass
The raging river, we could not believe how fast the water was flowing.
The river obviously didn’t reach the pool level.
There was a strange feeling of calm, yet there were people everywhere riding their bikes or out walking around taking photos.
He made it through!
Here comes another rider.
I was amazed by this footage, that shows the sheer amount of water that inundated the city. University of Queensland is where I spent the last 5 years studying and working, so I cannot even begin to imagine the damage that has been done.
I feel extremely lucky that my loved ones are safe, that most people I know live on high ground or got out in time, that everyone is helping each other and doing the best that they can to clean up the devastation left behind.
To be honest, the last few days haven’t felt real, as I drove away from Brisbane, over the bridge with the raging flood waters beneath, it felt like I was in a movie or some kind of bad dream, but still so fortunate compared to those who have lost everything.
But, along with all the tales of loss and devastation, are the encouraging efforts of people doing their best to help out those in need. The clean up has just begun, so there is still so much help needed!
Some of my wonderful and generous friends have organized collections of donated items to take to flood victims, as well as fund-raising events that will be hosted on the Gold Coast.
Zoe of Jetz PR and Ashe from Dash Events have teamed up to host a Queensland Flood Victims Charity Event at 1two3 Mediterranean Dining & Lounge Bar in Broadbeach, on Thursday 20th January. Event tickets are $20 and the FULL amount will go to the Premier’s flood appeal.
Included is a welcome drink (donated by Taltarni Wines & Coopers Beers) 2 hours of canapés (donated by 1two3), Live music by BT and Hosted by Emma Lancaster. Drinks are also half price on the night and many local businesses have donated gifts to be raffled off, with tickets going for $10 each.
Another friend, Leisa, will be running a Zumba flood appeal fundraiser, at Banora point high school, at 6:30pm NSW time (5:30pm QLD time) Tuesday 18th January. Have a bit of fun, get fit, and support a good cause, with all proceeds from the Zumba class going to flood victims.
Another fantastic effort that has been put together by Digella is Baked Relief, where people take baked goods and food supplies to hungry volunteers. We will be taking a big slab of banana bread from my Aunty at Cafe Sorrento to give some of the people working so hard a little treat.
If you are not in Queensland, you can help with a donation to the Premier’s flood appeal. Thank you so much for your thoughts and an help you can give.
Don’t forget, if you have been affected by the floods, the government is giving a little to help you get back on your feet.
Photos from: my camera 13.1.11
