Speaker November 2023 Ian Mercer

Troubles in a Watery Paradise
One of our former members, Ian Mercer, moved north for a change of scenery but soon found the scenery wasn’t quite what he had in mind.
In February 2022 heavy rainfall created flooding in the Lismore, Byron Bay and Ballina areas causing unprecedented havoc with land, property and lives. The damage to productive land and livelihoods has created ongoing physical and mental health issues for local communities.
Whilst the initial response by Government and other agencies, including the Armed Forces, helped to collect and clear ruined property the problem continues whilst the support has fallen behind the need. Ian’s involvement with Rotary and his “retired” building skills were quickly revitalised to assist in the placement of 30 pods, which arrive in flat packs and are erected quickly, to provide safe shelter with basic facilities on flood affected properties. Rotary has used donations of $1.6 million to assist in direct help for affected locals with the pods and also the distribution of vouchers for necessities.
The recovery phase continues and through the work of local Rotary and other agencies some relief has been seen but it is an ongoing need and additional help is always accepted.
Thank you, Ian, for your interesting and informative talk and your greatly appreciated restorative work in the Richmond River area.