Territory Families CEO Ken Davies will don an apron on Sunday morning to serve breakfast to the evacuated residents of Daly River.
He is one of dozens of department and community service agency representatives who will pick up the tongs at a barbecue to mark the end of a nearly two week stay at the Foskey Pavilion evacuation centre for the flood-impacted residents. The breakfast at the evacuation centre is a special occasion to say thanks to community members for their patience and co-operation during their stay.
The hundreds of residents who were forced from their homes by the flooded Daly River are expected to begin the return to their community from Monday. This will depend on a number of conditions to be assessed over the weekend, including power being connected. The return, by bus, will end nearly two weeks of living at the Foskey Pavilion evacuation centre for the residents.
During that time scores of staff members and volunteers from government departments and community service organisations have collaborated and co-ordinated on a huge logistical exercise to ensure the care and welfare of nearly 350 men, women and children.
These include:
The Emergency Operations Centre, led by Police, Fire and Emergency Services and the Department of the Chief Minister, which has coordinated the rescue and recovery effort.
The Animal Welfare Group of Department of Primary Industry and Resources which has been caring for and feeding the pets left behind in the community, several times a week
The Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics which has led the work to assess damage in the community and identify and undertake repairs.
The Welfare Group, led by Territory Families, which has been responsible for the evacuation centre, accommodation, food, activities, personal needs and welfare. This work has been supported by a range of partners including:
Australian Red Cross – evacuation centre management services
Correctional Services – meals supply and evacuation centre set up
Salvation Army – refreshments, snacks and food services
Foodbank – snacks and personal supplies
Department of Education – flood school
Department of Sport and Recreation – evacuation centre activities
Save the Children Fund – activities for children under five
Northern Territory Council of Churches - chaplaincy
Department of Health – health services
St Vincent de Paul Society – clothing support
Department of Housing and Community Development – emergency housing and volunteer support
Department of Human Services – support
Employee Assistance Services – counselling
Media is invited to attend the BBQ at the Foskey Pavilion at Darwin Showgrounds from 8am Sunday. Access is only available to the dining hall (Rotary Hall) and associated outdoor BBQ area. Please respect the privacy of the evacuees.
Media contact: Cerisse Denhardt 0437 966 527