Survivors Reflect on Two-Year Anniversary of Cyclone Gabrielle
As the sun shines brightly over the picturesque little red and white church in Eskdale, the scene appears almost joyous. People are hugging, smiling, and exchanging greetings, accompanied by the melodious notes of bagpipes floating in the air. The scent of freshly cut grass lingers, creating a tranquil atmosphere. However, a closer look reveals the pain and sorrow etched on the faces of those present. This tight-knit community has gathered to mark the two-year anniversary of the traumatic events that forever altered their lives when Cyclone Gabrielle wreaked havoc.
Rikki Reed, a survivor of the cyclone, shares his harrowing experience of clinging to a tree amidst dark and turbulent floodwaters in Esk Valley. The memory of that fateful day still haunts him, as he recalls the sheer terror he felt, believing he would never see his family again. Despite the passage of time, Reed admits to still struggling with the aftermath of the disaster, acknowledging the profound impact it has had on him. Reflecting on his emotions, he expresses a mix of gratitude for being alive and the ongoing challenges he faces in moving forward.
The cyclone, unlike any other storm, claimed the lives of 11 individuals as rivers across the region overflowed, unleashing a torrent that engulfed homes and left hundreds stranded, clinging to rooftops in a desperate bid for rescue. As the community comes together to commemorate the anniversary of this catastrophic event, the emotions run high, with memories resurfacing and grief resurfacing. For Reed, attending the church event serves as a way to pay tribute to those who lost their lives and to acknowledge the resilience of the survivors who have persevered in the face of adversity.
In the aftermath of the cyclone, the Eskdale community has united in a remarkable display of solidarity, rallying to support one another in the arduous task of rebuilding their lives from the ruins left behind. Minister Nigel Kynoch emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the collective journey and challenges faced by the community in the past two years. Expressing gratitude for the sense of camaraderie that has emerged amidst the devastation, Kynoch urges those gathered at the church to reflect on the progress made and the support received along the way.
Among those present, Rikki Reed’s contribution stands out as he recounts the extraordinary efforts to unearth the buried 105-year-old church from the deep silt that enveloped it. Describing the collaborative endeavor to restore the church grounds, including clearing drains and reviving the century-old rose garden, Reed reflects on the peace he finds in this sacred space. The tranquility of the church premises serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and community spirit that have sustained the survivors in their journey of recovery.
As the anniversary event draws to a close, attendees are left with a profound sense of gratitude for being alive, tempered by a deep sorrow for the lives lost in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle. The day serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the strength that emerges from unity in the face of adversity. Amidst the shared grief and memories of the past, the Eskdale community finds solace in coming together to honor the resilience and spirit that define their journey of survival.