Photo credit: Royal Humane Society of NSW – Bravery Awards pictured Mayor of Cabonne, Clr Kevin Beatty and the Governor of NSW, Margaret Beazley.
A MESSAGE FROM CABONNE MAYOR, CLR KEVIN BEATTY
“Last week, the Governor of New South Wales, as Patron of the Royal Humane Society, had the honour of presenting awards to 46 remarkable Australians whose actions exemplify extraordinary bravery. Among these recipients were the citizens of Eugowra, recognised with the inaugural Community Resilience Award, a distinction created to honour exceptional courage, humanity, endurance, and sacrifice during and after the devastating 2022 flood.
When disaster struck, Eugowra stood united. Neighbours rescued neighbours, cared for the sick and injured and faced unimaginable loss; loved ones, homes, businesses, animals, and vital infrastructure. Despite these overwhelming challenges, the community rallied together to rebuild their town and their lives. This award ensures that Eugowra’s determination and unity will never be forgotten. It is a lasting legacy of what can be achieved when a community faces adversity as one.
I was deeply privileged to accept this award on behalf of Eugowra’s residents, a moment that brought back memories of that day filled with uncertainty and fear. Together, we endured, and today we are finally beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel.
There is still much to be done, but this recognition is truly well deserved by the people of Eugowra. Receiving the very first award for community resilience is a profound testament to the strength and courage shown on that day, and every day since. Though a little bruised, they continue forward with unwavering determination.
As the local schoolchildren and alumni of St Josephs Catholic School Eugowra told the story in song, “we are mighty, we are brave… together we will help each other stay.” Those words capture the very spirit of Eugowra and everyone who stood up in the face of disaster, rescuers, volunteers, and the community itself.
I also want to acknowledge the Royal Humane Society awards presented to the helicopter crews and critical care paramedics who risked their lives to save others. These teams from Bankstown, Orange, and Wollongong undertook hazardous aerial rescues for many hours, airlifting stranded residents from rooftops and attics and transporting the injured and sick to safety. Thank you for your courage, your service, and the lifesaving actions you carried out on that day.”