A man named David Knowles, aged 63, tragically lost his life during the recent NSW floods. He was at his property in Moto when floodwaters began to rise, prompting him to direct emergency crews to assist his neighbors first before coming back for him. By the time rescuers returned, it was too late, and Knowles had already passed away. His daughters, Roxy and Stacey, paid tribute to their father, calling him a hero for prioritizing the safety of others over his own.
Another man’s body was found this morning, with a third victim confirmed by NSW Police in the evening. Meanwhile, one person remains missing after their car got stuck in floodwaters near Rosewood. The flood emergency has led to evacuations in several towns and significant damage to thousands of homes. The situation is dire, with almost 50,000 people isolated in what is considered the worst flood disaster the NSW Mid North Coast has ever experienced.
Premier Chris Minns expressed condolences for the victims and their families, acknowledging the devastating impact on the community. He warned of more bad news to come in the next 24 hours and highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by heavy rainfall. The SES has been actively involved in over 500 flood rescues in the Hunter and Mid North Coast regions, emphasizing the importance of heeding warnings and staying informed through the Hazards Near Me app and SES website. The coordination of emergency workers, including Defence personnel, is crucial in response efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected by the floods.