Cabonne Council Mayor, Kevin Beatty, has been presented with the inaugural Royal Humane Society of NSW ‘Community Resilience Award’ by the Society’s Patron, NSW Governor, Margaret Beazley AC KC for the organisation’s response to a catastrophic flood that swept through the town of Eugowra three years ago.
The 14 November 2022 event was widely described at the time as an “inland tsunami”. The flood officially peaked at 11.2 metres (a 1-in-5,000-year event) but it was the force of two massive waves, which reportedly devastated Eugowra, washing buildings and vehicles away. Tragically, there were two fatalities and 80-90% of the town’s buildings were destroyed or extensively damaged.
Mayor Beatty said that when disaster struck, Eugowra stood united.
“Neighbours rescued neighbours, cared for the sick and injured, supported the homeless, and faced unimaginable loss; loved ones, homes,
businesses, animals, and vital infrastructure,” he said.
“Despite these overwhelming challenges, the community rallied together to rebuild their town and their lives.
“This award ensures that Eugowra’s determination and unity will never be forgotten. It is a lasting legacy of what can be achieved when a
community faces adversity as one.
“The Community Resilience Award, is a distinction which was created to honour exceptional courage, humanity, endurance, and sacrifice during and after the devastating 2022 flood. It was not just how Eugowra citizens faced the flood disaster and its’ aftermath that has been recognised but also the reconstruction of the town, propelled by community spirit and pride.
“I was deeply privileged to accept this award on behalf of Eugowra’s residents, a moment that brought back memories of that day filled with uncertainty and fear.
“Together, we endured, and today we are finally beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel. There is still much to be done, but this recognition is truly well deserved by the people of Eugowra.”
Country Mayors Association of NSW (CMA) Chairman, Mayor Rick Firman OAM said the state recognition of the council’s efforts was well-deserved.
“Through a decade of record-breaking drought, fires, floods and the Covid-19 pandemic, rural, remote and regional communities in NSW have demonstrated their resilience but few more so than the courageous and determined Eugowra locals.
“The CMA Board, staff and Members take our collective hats off to Mayor Beattie and his community for this rare and significant honour,” he said.
