Country Women's Association work behind the scenes for local flood victims

In March this year, Kempsey CWA president Colleen Waterson received a phone call from a Sydney business owner who wanted to organise a charity golf event with the proceeds going towards residents in the Kempsey Shire.

"This all started from when the mayor (Liz Campbell) did a TV interview with all of the water flowing behind her, and this business man from Sydney saw it, and immediately contacted us wanting to do something about it," Ms Waterson said.

"We were absolutely delighted to think that these very generous people down in Sydney were willing enough to donate to what happened up here."

With the money that was raised at the golf event, the CWA has been able to help out a school and 16 residents from around the Macleay region who suffered severe damage to their property from the floods.

Individuals were given gift vouchers so that they could purchase clothing and replace household items.

Through referrals from the Kempsey Flood relief hub team, which involved organisations such as St Vincent de Paul society, families were connected with the CWA for assistance.

The vouchers are handed out through a committee formed by the CWA members.

"It has been so rewarding to be able to assist families in some small way and bring light and hope into their lives after being devastated by the floods," Ms Waterson said.

Karen Mcintosh's who received a voucher last week, discussed her ordeal with the Argus.

"There was three and a half metres of water that went through the house during the storm, we lost our machinery and everything," Ms Mcintosh said.

"We were trapped upstairs, the RFS had to come and rescue us with a rubber ducky, and the saved me, my husband Peter and our little dog lily."

"I'm very grateful to the CWA and the wonderful people who raised the money in Sydney."

Ms Mcintosh would also like to thank the volunteers from Sherwood Hall, Wittitrin Progress Association and the Hub for their help during that time.

The CWA runs monthly meetings and if you are interested in joining don't hesitate to call Colleen on 0409 458 522 for further information.

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