QLD floods inspire the extraordinary
This time last week I sat at my desk daydreaming about my weekend activities – specifically those I could use as inspiration for my first Brio Daily blog come Monday. At the time, my plans were ordinary – take an early morning CityCat to Southbank, grab a coffee, wander over to GoMA, take a midday stroll to the Botanical Gardens and spend a lazy afternoon reading by the river before catching the sunset across the water. It’s the kind of magical day I’ve loved most since moving here in 2005, but as the Brisbane River spilled devastation into the suburbs last week it became clear those plans would not be a possibility.
Instead, I found something much more magical – being involved in the huge clean up effort organised to assist the thousands of Queenslanders affected by the ravaging floods. Armed with gumboots, sunscreen and a sense of community spirit I joined thousands of people across Brisbane and surrounding areas who boarded buses bound for areas worst affected by the devastating floods. When I arrived at Jindalee and St Lucia it was at once heartbreaking and nothing short of extraordinary. Thousands of volunteers clad in gumboots, armed with mops, buckets and brooms and all ready to tackle the enormous task of restoring the suburbs. Sentimental to my core, I can’t imagine how those affected by the flood disaster will feel in the days and months ahead, but like others who escaped the river’s wrath I can offer my time helping those in need through what will be tough times.
Seeing footage of the city slowly revealing its banks and starting to resemble the Brisbane of a few weeks ago, I can’t help but think about my next few weekends and how they will be spent donating time to those who are weighted down with the task of rebuilding their lives and homes. After the past week what else could be more magical and inspiring than making someone else smile?
To make someone smile, you can donate to the Premier’s flood relief appeal by calling 1800 219 028 or visiting the website; you can also give your time by registering at the Emergency Volunteering website.
Yours in magical thinking & gumboots,
Sheri
