The media has moved on, but the flood’s aftermath still grips the Mid-North Coast. When a third of the Manning River’s annual rainfall fell within 48 hours, it triggered a “one-in-500-year” event that stunned residents in Taree, Wingham, and Croki.

More than 1.5 metres of floodwater surged through Wei Si and Sui Jian’s home and property in Croki, leaving behind a sullen, uninhabitable home filled with inches of mud and ruined floors, walls, furniture and cabinetry. Concerned neighbours brought them to our team’s attention, explaining that they had been isolated since the flood and unable to seek help due to the language barrier.

Becoming aware of this, our teams prayerfully sought a way to reach out and communicate with them. The next day, their prayers were answered by the way of a minister and his wife­­—who spoke Mandarin—from Manning Bible Church, who had volunteered with Samaritan’s Purse together with their congregation to help with the clean-up.

Making it their personal ministry, they visited Wei Si and Sui Jian, sharing meals and fellowship leading up to the day Samaritan’s Purse teams arrived. Together, they helped strip, clean and sanitise their home, helping them begin their recovery—all with the help of translation from the minister’s wife.

We rejoice at the way the Holy Spirit has opened doors for God’s people to reach those most in need. Several churches have combined their congregations to help lift the burden off the community’s shoulders onto their own. We have experienced record numbers of volunteers and assistance through meals, hampers and supplies.

We thank and praise God for all that is being accomplished in His Name.