NSW SES wraps up storm response

Focus shifts to recovery efforts

NSW SES wraps up storm response

Insurance News

By Jonalyn Cueto

The New South Wales State Emergency Service (NSW SES) has concluded its storm response and clean-up operations across the Hunter, Central Coast, Maitland, Newcastle, and Taree, following the severe weather that struck the state on Jan. 15.

In the wake of the storms, which caused significant damage to homes, commercial buildings, and sheds, NSW SES volunteers responded to over 9,420 incidents. A workforce of more than 2,500 volunteers contributed nearly 60,000 hours of service alongside emergency partners.

NSW SES commissioner Mike Wassing praised the dedication of volunteers and emergency service workers who supported the hardest-hit communities. “These storms had significant impacts, with thousands of trees damaging properties and impacting people’s livelihoods,” Wassing said. “Our volunteers have been working tirelessly supporting communities right across the state – on chainsaws, heights teams, incident management and community liaison teams.”

He highlighted the contributions of volunteers who travelled from locations such as Dubbo, Broken Hill, and Ballina to assist communities they had never met. Wassing also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of local councils, emergency services, community groups, and the NSW Reconstruction Authority in addressing the widespread damage.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority, now leading the recovery efforts, has deployed teams to affected areas to provide support. CEO Mal Lanyon assured residents that recovery partners are implementing assistance measures to help communities rebuild.

Minister for emergency services Jihad Dib commended first responders and reaffirmed the NSW government’s commitment to recovery efforts. “The NSW government is working with local councils and emergency response organisations to assess the damage from last week’s storms as we transition towards the recovery phase,” Dib said.

To assist affected residents, the NSW Reconstruction Authority has opened Recovery Assistance Points in Woodberry and Raymond Terrace. These centres will provide information and support services, operating on Thursday and Friday.

The final incident count underscores the scale of the response, with the Metro Zone reporting the highest number of incidents (5,110), followed by the Northern Zone (2,839).

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