Towards the end of February and through to early March 2022, South East Queensland, Wide Bay-Burnett, and parts of New South Wales experienced one of the worst flood disasters in Australian history. A few months later a team of volunteers from Form1 visited the area to deliver donations and help out those in need. Human Resources manager, Christian Ure, was there. “In June we joined David Rugendyke, from the Convoy Commune and managed to hand-deliver all the items that were donated to our Form1 Flood Relief Appeal,” says Christian.
A few months later, in September, Form1 Electrician David Schepis gathered a second team of volunteers to visit The Woodburn Recovery Hub. What they discovered on arriving was families, individuals, and businesses still suffering loss and in desperate need of help.
“To be honest we were shocked at the state of things in Woodburn,” says Daniel. “We met people who were still without lights and power. It’s September – more than six months after the floods – and these people are still waiting for help. There are individuals, families, and businesses who still need support to get back on their feet.”
Daniel and the team were able to offer trades help which was desperately lacking in most areas.
“A lot of places have been in undated with donations, like food and mattresses, but many victims have been told they’ll have to wait up to 12 months for trades help.”
Can You Help?
Form1 took three vehicles on the volunteer trip and completed 21 jobs over the weekend.
“Everyone who volunteered is keen to go again,” says Daniel. “There is so much more we can do to help.”
Form1 would love to talk to anyone who is interested in helping or being involved in this ongoing initiative. Volunteer efforts are still needed in the following areas:
- General help – This may include removing furniture and cleaning.
- Volunteer trades – If you are an electrician, plumber, carpenter, or painter your services are needed.
- Equipment – If you are a wholesale provider and would like to donate goods for installation, please contact us.
Click here to read more about Christian’s visit to Woodburn earlier this year.
