Maribyrnong residents Stephanie Echano and Rebecca Luong has acknowledged the efforts of State Emergency Service [SES] volunteers and the support from members of their Jehovah’s Witness congregation for saving them from the Maribyrnong floods and supporting them during the aftermath.
They were living in neighbouring flats and remained unaware of the rising waters during the morning of October 14.
Earlier that morning at 4am, the SES had alerted residents to evacuate the area, with another prompt at 6.30am.
Ms Luong said she became aware of the developing disaster too late.
“My friend called me at 7 am to check up on me, and then I heard the helicopters in the air,” she said.
Ms Echano said they were trapped on all sides by the still-rising torrent.
“By the time we woke up and saw the water, both sides of our street were already inundated,” she said.
“We got our go-bags ready and notified the SES and representatives from the congregation of Jehovah’s Witness we belong to of our situation.
“There was no way out at that point.”
With other residents and the landlord’s family, they climbed a ladder to the roof of their unit block to get to higher ground, so they could see the SES boat coming to rescue them.
Ms Luong said the SES volunteers were “helpful and kind” during the rescue procedure.
“It was so comforting to see the orange uniforms,” she said.
The SES volunteers navigated the boat through the rapids and obstacles, such as trees and cars.
An exhausted SES member fell into the water and was almost swept away in the strong currents.
The flood destroyed most of the women’s household items, such as furniture, electricals and motor vehicles, yet they said they had felt the community spirit.
Ms Echano said they were still experiencing mental hardships in the aftermath of the flood, as they were feeling displaced.
“I was having dreams about getting lost in the flood,” she said.
“I was overwhelmed with any form of decision-making in the aftermath and was so grateful for the support of our friends’ love and attention.”
Ms Luong said the kindness of the community had been a source of hope.
“To deal with reality again has been the most difficult thing,” she said.
“The SES, Lifesaving Australia, those working in the Relief Centre and our friends from our congregation has really helped us cope and adjust.”
