One year after devastating floods swept through the Manning region, two Taree clubs are being recognised for the extraordinary role they played in helping their community recover, with both Club Taree and Taree Aquatic Club (Sailo’s) named finalists in the Emergency Response category of the prestigious ClubsNSW Clubs & Community Awards.
The awards, to be held at the International Convention Centre Sydney on June 11, celebrate clubs making a meaningful impact in their communities during times of crisis and recovery.
Club Taree is also a finalist in the Health Care, Heart of the Community and Mental Wellbeing categories, while Sailo’s has additionally been recognised in the Small Club, Big Heart category.
For Peter Hemingway, the recognition comes after what he described as one of the most challenging experiences of his 30-year career in the club industry.
“We were quite taken aback,” Mr Hemingway said.
“Through all the heartache, trauma, and hard work through those dark days, it has been an honour, and we are proud to be able to come this far and promote this to our members.”
Mr Hemingway vividly recalled the moment the scale of the disaster became apparent.
“I remember late Monday night through to early Tuesday morning, the rain was smashing down on my tin roof at home,” he said.
“Constantly checking the CCTV on my mobile phone of the lower club area along the riverbank, which had burst its banks at 1 am.”
Floodwaters reached 1.4 metres inside the venue – exceeding the 2021 flood level – leaving more than $1.5 million damage, much of it uninsured.
“It had crossed my mind that we may not recover,” Mr Hemingway said.
“However, the Board, Staff, and I were always going to give it our all no matter what and for me, I had to be strong and put my feelings aside and focus.”
What followed was an enormous community-led recovery effort involving staff, volunteers, tradespeople, emergency services and support from clubs across the state.
“Personally, it was overwhelming,” he said.
“It showcased the community spirit of Taree and how resilient we would become as a town.”
Remarkably, the club reopened just eight weeks after the flood.
“Remarkable, to say the least,” Mr Hemingway said.
“It was very much a coordinated effort, well planned and executed.”
He said the support received through the “Clubs Helping Clubs” initiative proved vital, with approximately $165,000 raised to assist rebuilding efforts.
“Our major contributor was Revesby Workers Club, who donated $50,000,” he said.
“There were even some smaller clubs that helped which was so gratifying.”
Meanwhile, Paul Allan said Club Taree’s award nominations reflected the dedication of staff and volunteers who transformed the club into a vital evacuation and support hub during the floods.
“We are always humbled to be a finalist in the ClubsNSW Clubs and Community Awards,” Mr Allan said.
“Our team are incredibly committed to making a positive difference in our community.”
Activated as an evacuation centre at 3 am during what was described as a “1-in-500-year” flood event, Club Taree sheltered 837 evacuees over eight days while operating with just 17 staff.
“Our absolute priority in the moment was offering care, comfort and a place of respite for those in need,” Mr Allan said.
“We offered a place of familiarity, a listening ear, safety and security.”
Club Taree’s workforce was reduced from 83 staff to just 17 because of flood isolation, but those remaining quickly established sleeping areas, catering services, information stations and support zones for families and pets.
“We instantly became the caterers providing five meals a day to not only those in-house but also other townsfolk in need as well as supporting the feeding of rescue crews,” he said.
Mr Allan said the emotional toll on evacuees was immense.
“Some having battled flood waters, others having lost all their possessions, some unaware of where their family members were, and others carrying just their pets,” he said.
“At that point, the most important thing we could do was offer a hug.”
Looking back, he said the response of the small team that remained onsite during the crisis was something he would never forget.
“Our team of 17 well-spirited, committed and community-driven staff were, during these 10 days, the greatest example of humanity,” he said.
“Without thought for themselves, or their loved ones, they committed to showing up.”
Both clubs say the nominations are not only recognition of their own efforts, but of the wider Taree community’s resilience and determination in the wake of disaster.
“Taree is strong and determined,” Mr Allan said.
“Taree is practical and driven. Taree is kind and grateful.”
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