Forum Thermomix
Welcoming Center, Management and General Chat => Chit Chat => Topic started by: Snoozie on December 30, 2010, 04:24:58 am
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Sorry if there's already a thread.
Hope those caught up in the floods are staying safe. We are on dry ground here caught between flooded areas. Only been here just over a month and have been flooded in one way or another ever since!!! At least we are faring better than Emerald who are currently being evacuated, or worse, Theodore. The footage on the news last night was as heartbreaking as it was unbelievable.
Foodwise our local Woollies has no bread, milk, flour, frozen veges, baking powder and barely any meat, fruit, veges etc. They are hoping the truck will get through next week. Sounds like Rockhampton is the same.
In these times I'm loving my Thermomix even more! Came here to hunt down a recipe for bread lol Luckily I stocked up on milk the other day and have enough in the freezer to last until supplies come in I hope!!
Will be more active once I have a computer back!!! It's been gone for months now getting repaired.
So again, stay safe those flooded and I hope when the levels recede the damage isn't too extensive for you.
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The floods are horrid aren't they? We watch it on several lots of news each evening and find it devastating. To think that those lovely old buildings along the river in Rockhampton will be flooded. I guess it has happened to them before. We saw a caravan park we had stayed in and the water was 3/4 way up the ablution block. Really sad.
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Cookie please don't believe all that is in the media - while we are expecting a major flood peak through next week in Rocky, the beautiful buildings along Quay St will remain safe. While they are along the river for those buildings to be affected the river would need to rise another 2.5 - 3 metres. I have never seen so much water in and around the place but thankfully Rockhampton is not suffering as Emerald and Theodore - my thoughts are with those communities.
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Thank you for letting me know that. I loved Queensland and hate to think of such dreadful things happening.
What will happen to sugar cane that is flooded? Is it ruined or will it come back.
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Not sure about what type of crops but saw farmer on news saying all his winter crops were gone and I the rain doesn't go soon his summer will be gone too.
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Sending my best wishes to all those affected.
I'll be donating when I get to the bank next week.
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Yes MJ it is something small we can all do.
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My sister is in Rockhampton, and I rang her today, but she said the media is hyping things up a lot more than necessary. They don't have any flooding at their house. She said her MIL in Bundaberg was amazed to see that they were saying the McDonalds in Bundaberg was flooded to the ceiling (they even showed photos) when it was still dry there!! Who knows what the photos were of! But I think a lot of it would be true - especially Emerald - it's awful there, isn't it - poor people! :(
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my thoughts are also with those in oz in flooded areas...not the best startt o 2011..i just hope people are staying safe as material things can always be replaced but loved ones not so much..
happy new year to everyone though..just hope everyone is keeping safe !
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I watched the news last night and they showed some devastating news footage.But I'm glad to hear that people who have loved ones in the area are safe and not surprised by the media hyping things up!!
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on the news over here in france again today..saying the flooded area including rockhampton is the size of france and germany combined??? i dont know if its media hype or if its actually that bad..i hope everyones family is safe and sound and jo that your sister is still ok
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Thoughts are with everyone affected by the flooding xxx :-*
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Yes, thanks, my sister's fine - she says it's mainly down by the river, and she lives up higher, at least 3 blocks from the nearest road cut. It is awful though - what a mess it will be to clean up!!! :( I wouldn't think the Rockhampton flooding is as big as France and Germany, but maybe they mean ALL the flooded areas combined? I think there's 23 towns affected altogether!
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yes they were talkig about all flooded areas but ona map it was surroudning the rockhampton area in a big oval??? anyway glad to hear your sister is fine and dry :)
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Soozie good to hear from you and glad it's not what the media are saying
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Our home overlooks a large part of Rockhampton -at present the airport and carparks are a lake. It is so strange tat a city of 75000 is geographically isolated - mother nature has so much power!!! It is wonderful to see the community support when the call came that volunteers were needed to help fill sandbags - the result 9000 were filled in 3hrs. Cheers to all - Robyn :) :)
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Zan: we are fortunate in that whilst we are isolated by the flood we're not affected by it. That is, our town is dry but all roads out are cut at some point (flooded at Comet for Emerald, Duaringa for Rockhampton and Brisbane I believe. We couldn't get past Theodore to Brisbane going the back way anyway) lol
Worst thing for us is Miss 2 yr old faceplanted the front steps on Boxing Day and knocked her tooth clear out. Took her up to emergency but closest dentist is Rockhampton (2+ hrs away) and wasn't accessible due to flooding so she'll have to do without til her adult tooth comes through.
Other than that my ob is based in Rockhampton so not sure when I'm seeing him next!!!
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Oh, Snoozie, that's a bit worrying about your ob being in Rockie - might have to find another!!
My sister in Rocki just sent an email and said 'The shops are pretty empty, but milk and bread seem to be available still. No toilet paper and barely any meat to be had, even canned tuna has disappeared! It is quite interesting. There are still fruit and veg but the prices are going up.' Even up her in FNQ our shops are looking barer - still toilet paper so far though, thank goodness!! But no bread. But that's okay - I can make my own!! ;D
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Jo the shop shelves at the end of last week were completely bare while southern road was cut at Gin Gin, then had 1 load through before all roads out of here were cut. I wish my brad making skills were those of many on here - the rolls have been heavy. I checked that the yeast was still active and now definitely have to admit it is my skills or lack of them that producing products which do not measure up -cheers :)
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Well, I guess you'll get lots of practice making bread now!! lol - If it's heavy, it may be that the dough is too wet (... like everything else in Rocky!!! :D )
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At least I'm not at the end of my pregnancy or that could have been scary!!! Have to give them a call to find out what's going on.
I'm getting bread making practice :)
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Sooz, eek at least a baby tooth, that's a bit scary though.
So do you have to travel to the ob for all your appts? Where are you birthing?
(mine were all at home - travelling is a big fear of mine, so the thought of being cut off wouldn't be good, I know with dd3 my m/w was sure she wouldn't make it for the catch, nor did dh but I knew she would as I would wait, lol).
Hopefully the weather will be nice and easy before you are due! Well this silly weather can't continue.
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Yeah all at Rocky. Apparently you get put up in a motel a week or so before EDD. DH would never agree to HB. We have a local hospital but no maternity. I want to be in a major centre simply because of the possible genetic issues for bub. L&D have been pretty good for me (touch wood!) so it's bub I want to ensure has medical care if necessary.
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Hang in there everyone and keep up the bread making.
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Sooz, hope the weather improves then. Would be worrying for anyone due now - guess they could be helicoptered out?
The staying in a motel before sounds good - do you get to go without kids? If I went a week before edd I could get a 3 week holiday out of it, lol.
So how is it for everyone today? Have the floods peaked as expected?
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Sooz, hope the weather improves then. Would be worrying for anyone due now - guess they could be helicoptered out?
The staying in a motel before sounds good - do you get to go without kids? If I went a week before edd I could get a 3 week holiday out of it, lol.
So how is it for everyone today? Have the floods peaked as expected?
Lol I was exactly the same - all 5 of mine were pretty comfortable in there!!
On the other note, I hope everyone is staying dry and safe!!
Bread making ... we all have problems with it at some time it seems. I love the tip to check the dough through the hole in the lid 10 seconds into kneading. If it sticks to your fingers add a tablespoon of flour. I think it may have been your tip Jo ??? ???
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Bread making ... we all have problems with it at some time it seems. I love the tip to check the dough through the hole in the lid 10 seconds into kneading. If it sticks to your fingers add a tablespoon of flour. I think it may have been your tip Jo ??? ???
Not sure - that is what I do though - just don't stick your finger in too far or it might get bitten off!! :D
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ROFLMAO :D :D :D
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Hi lovelies, the flood peak has passed, lower than expected but no less devastating for those who had to be evacuated. There were as many news crews on the riverbank at 5.30pm as residents viewing the flood level (obviously including yours truly) - I was dropping DH at gym so that the poor petal did not have to walk through flood waters. Apart from the state of the water, there are snakes galore - eeeekkkkkk :) :)
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Hi lovelies, the flood peak has passed, lower than expected but no less devastating for those who had to be evacuated. There were as many news crews on the riverbank at 5.30pm as residents viewing the flood level (obviously including yours truly) - I was dropping DH at gym so that the poor petal did not have to walk through flood waters. Apart from the state of the water, there are snakes galore - eeeekkkkkk :) :)
So glad to hear that the flood waters have peaked but the thought of those snakes makes me shudder!!!
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HI all
Wow, the floods even make news on the Thermy forum! I am in Rockhampton and yes, the media is making it out to be worse than it really is ! There are only a couple of lowlying suburbs affected in the town and some rural areas outside the town.
There is not man-eating crocodiles at our front door, but there are a few snakes around in the water!
We are very grateful that the water rose slowly and we have only had one fatality (out west from here) so far. Not as bad as a cyclone or bushfire where there is immediate threat to lives. The community is banding together so amazingly and everyone is lending a hand.
So grateful for my thermy too....there has been a shortage of food and bread because of panic buying.....been living on the five seed bread - better than the shop stuff anyway!!
Thanks for your thoughts
:) :)
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Thanks for the update. I think I'd be sitting on my roof, not because of the floods but because of the snakes. I can tolerate most other things but not snakes. If I see one I put a chair on the table and sit on it until I see the dead snake. I have caused a few people to have hysterics over the years. They find me more amusing than dealing with the snake.
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Yes and snakes are protected so you're not supposed to kill them. I hate snakes. First day in town here I go to walk down the back steps and a bloody brown snake flashes across the path to the clothesline. My dryer had a bit of a work out for a couple of weeks after that! Didn't help DH was working most days and with the rain the yard was jungle like. Wasn't letting kids outthere which didn't make me popular with them either.
Bucketed rain here last night but Comet to Emerald meant to be open now. Duaringa is still closed from what I understand.
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where are you from Snoozie?
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I'm in central Qld now. Mining country lol Came up from the darling downs so would've been rainy either way but not flooded in back in Toowoomba!
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Thanks for the update girls. It is more informative than our news service. Boy can those snakes move on water - I can just see Cookie moving as fast as that if one of them decided to chase her :D :D
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Thanks for the update. I think I'd be sitting on my roof, not because of the floods but because of the snakes. I can tolerate most other things but not snakes. If I see one I put a chair on the table and sit on it until I see the dead snake. I have caused a few people to have hysterics over the years. They find me more amusing than dealing with the snake.
im so with you cookie..hate the things..one thing i love about europe...no deadly snakes..!! ;D
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GO AWAY FOR A LITTLE BIT PLEASE RAIN!!!!!
Ok. Slightly over it now. Hehe I saw a mailman this morning but no mail for us yet. No recycling bin collected either hehe
I know people are dealing with lots worse. I am getting worried we are not going to be able to make it through for daughter to have dental op at eom. Just when you think things are clearing a bucket more rain arrives!
Okies. Selfish venty rant over now!!!
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Rant away Snoozie, you have every reason to. Hope the rain gods give you a break soon. :-*
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I agree with you re rain and of course the snakes. The SES boats are putting passengers in on side of the boat on the Capricorn Highway (getting essential service people from Gracemere to Rockhampton) while the snakes are trying to get to the dry of the boat on the other side. I am not setting foot in any type of flood waters and I have no need to go to Gracemere despite DD3 and my sister living in Gracemere. :) :)
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GO AWAY FOR A LITTLE BIT PLEASE RAIN!!!!!
Ok. Slightly over it now. Hehe I saw a mailman this morning but no mail for us yet. No recycling bin collected either hehe
I know people are dealing with lots worse. I am getting worried we are not going to be able to make it through for daughter to have dental op at eom. Just when you think things are clearing a bucket more rain arrives!
Okies. Selfish venty rant over now!!!
Rant away Snoozie, Friends always listen. :) :)
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This is much better than the news coverage - thanks for reporting. Glad to hear everyone is safe and there are no thermomixes underwater!
I have had a few American friends email me and ask how I am surviving the flooding....I'm in Perth :)
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eeek the snakes sound awful
sooz sorry to hear it isn't letting up with the rain, surely enough already!!!
And rant away. 'Little' things are the ones that really make it piss you off. Hope you can get to the dental appt.
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Cottchick I had to laugh at that. We've had similar things happen at other times.
Snoozie, you are keeping us all up to date, you have every right to rant and rave.
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It always makes me smile when there is any type of Australian news that makes international coverage - the rest of the world believe this island continent is minuscule, I am sure very few Aussies would worry about Florida disasters affecting Californian friends.
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My heart goes out to the farmers who've lost all their crops and had their paddocks ripped up by flood waters.
I can't imagine what that must be like. We had so little rain this year. One side of the country has too much, the other too little. Crazy! ???
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It always makes me smile when there is any type of Australian news that makes international coverage - the rest of the world believe this island continent is minuscule, I am sure very few Aussies would worry about Florida disasters affecting Californian friends.
very true...it is a little bit the medias fault though as they just say Australia has been hit with heavy floods etc etc but dont always specify where so people generalise..saying that knowlege of australia in general isnt that great internationally..for most people its a tropical dream land where people live off the land and speak with really strange accents lol. It used to bother me alot especially as i used to work in marketing tourism for oz and i even used to express concern about putting knowledge out there in foreign schools etc to educate different cultures about Australia as the only form of information regarding australia are documentries I saw in school that dated then back to the 70s (and after ten years its still the same doc being aired) with a bit on dingos and the outback, kangaroos and the bush but nothing of modern australia, its vibrant cities and diverse landscapes!! The problem is not only knowledge but having access to it and the majority of people have no clue about Australia unless they travel a fair bit and have been there which isnt a huge amount of people unfortunately...in France for example the majority of people travel by car and stay in France, there are alot of people scared to travel by plane and even more afraid to go too far from home. I think Australians are unique in the sense that its almost like we are born to travel and experience new things..maybe its the distance between places that gives us that???? I have friends over here that think an hour is a huge trip..i know aussies that travel that just to go shopping and its no big deal!
anyway so sorry to sidestep and go off the main discussion in advance...just blabbing on as usual
do forgive me :)
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What a pleasant babble ;D to read Kim. The distances are certainly a shock for first time international visitors - scary actually as they can look at a map and decide that during their 10 day visit a road trip from Cairns to Melbourne would be no problem. It has always been so refreshing for us to drive in the UK or Europe as distances are so short!!!!!!
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What a pleasant babble ;D to read Kim. The distances are certainly a shock for first time international visitors - scary actually as they can look at a map and decide that during their 10 day visit a road trip from Cairns to Melbourne would be no problem. It has always been so refreshing for us to drive in the UK or Europe as distances are so short!!!!!!
yes we used to laugh in shock at foreign tourists who used to ask cab drivers from sydney to drive them for a day trip to Uluru (Ayres Rock)..lol I dont think many visitors have a true concept of the size of oz..when i worked in schools over here I used to always tell them how many times France could fit into australia to give them an idea of how big it is..used to always wow them!! If I remember its around 14 times!
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Lol earlier this year DH was commuting 1.5 hours each way to go to work. A commute of 3 hours a day or 15 hours a week. Yep we sure can travel :D :D I am an hour away from my parents. One end of Perth to the other - yet it is nothing to jump in the car and "call in"
I am grateful that everyone is ok, and thank everyone that has contributed on here to let us know how it all really is. I will happily pay a little extra for my fruit and veg for a while (this also includes from Carnarvon here in the West) as long as everyone is safe :)
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You are so right re the travel bit. My parents had some English friends come over and they had the itinerary planned. Go to Monkey Mia in the morning and see the dolphins, (return trip 1760km) have lunch in Fremantle and then go to the Bungle Bungles in the afternoon. (return trip at least 5000-6000km)
We've spoken to a lot of caravanners in our travels who won't come to Western Australia as everthing is so far apart.
I guess you get used to it. At least we can go a distance in time, not have to travel for an hour and only go 15km.
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Deja vu here..... sitting at home... unable to get out of town in any direction... not sure about over the hill but possibly if desperate. House full of food... thermomix running... coffee machine fine.
Dog asleep near the door inside. :P
Oh and the knowledge that the local Woolworths... and former Coles buildings are yet again under water....
Stay safe people!!
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Please keep the people of Dalby, Toowoomba and Gympie in your thoughts.
My hometown of Toowoomba was hit by flash flooding an the pics are shocking to me. The range has had multiple landslides, houses have been swept away along with cars, confirmed deaths. There was no warning.
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I hadn't heard that about Toowoomba - that's awful! I'd better watch the news tonight... I avoid it mostly! It rained here for half an hour or so this avvie, and it was so heavy that the roads flooded and I had to drive home from town veeerrrryyyy slowly!
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Oh no not seen that about Toowoomba, will be thinking of them.
Sooz are you still flooded in?
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I saw the Toowoomba flash flood, that so was frightening and so easy to have been caught up in with no warning.
Hope everyone is OK - there doesn't seem to be an end in sight with rain continuing to fall. Ceejay, glad you have food and the dog is obviously blissfully unaware of what is going on. How are the kids coping - with restricted movements they must be getting bored.
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We can be thankful that the body of water surrounding Rockhampton and district is not a raging torrent - quite the opposite with the flood peak in the river only 1 cm lower than last Wednesday. My thoughts are with the residents of the Lockyer Valley, Toowoomba, Gympie etc. Stay safe all.
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Toowoomba, Lockyer Valley, Gympie etc are in our thoughts and prayers as well. It's devastating and a horrific reminder.
Kids are relatively ok JD... my friend has taken two of them to her place 2 mins away to keep them busy.. Thankfully most of our friends are in close proximity. It seems the two youngest won't get to their daycare mum tomorrow... or their father's place. :-\
Otherwise... I'm getting used to the noise - it's a small price to pay compared to what others are dealing with. :'(
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hope everybody is safe and their families..horrible and it seems to only be getting worse :(
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I haven't seen any news today, so this forum is great to keep up to date. I hope everyone in the affected areas and surrounds are keeping safe. We are all thinking of you.
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We are able to get to emerald but why would you right now? We can even get to Rocky doing a very big divert (driving about 6.5hrs instead of 2). Duaringa is still cut.
Our house in Toowoomba is apparently ok but haven't checked since the 20ft wall of water went down the range!!!! My thoughts and prayers also with communities of Gatton, Helidon, Murphy's Creek etc who are being evacuated.
I am feeling a bit shocked seeing raging floods in such a familiar place! I know it's silly to feel that way but never would've imagined flooding like that in Toowoomba. A couple of friends have lost their cars. Just grateful they are safe.
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I've just spoken to my Mum and Dad who are in a caravan park in Tamworth. She said that at the end of the acts tonight it was said that they were going to do a fundraiser for the flood victims next Monday at 3.30pm at Blazers, west league club ( hope I have that right!!!)
So if anyone is interested and near to there, that would be great to get as many people as possible to attend.
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Wow, saw the news and was very shocked!!! My small problems of a toilet that won't flush because of a flooded septic seems VERY small now!! Our thoughts and prayers are with you guys in those areas too. :-* :-* :-*
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I am sitting here crying. Yes. I'm pregnant and hormonal but this is incredible. I'm watching channel 9 and holding my little family tight.
I just don't know what to say I was speaking to a friend in Toowoomba and had to get off because ofthe severe storm and lightning going on there. Expecting at least 16m to hit Ipswich with missing people.
Anna Bligh said to "expect dramatic rises in fatalities".
It's all over the news, Internet and social media. I am hoping and praying people stay safe.
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The sight of the flash flood in Toowoomba is dreadful. I am thinking of you all and praying that the loss of life is not too bad. WAtching cars being rolled over and bobbing along in the water like balls is sickening. I feel so helpless sitting over here hardly knowing what rain looks like. My thoughts are with everyone involved no matter in what way. :-*
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Awww Snoozie I feel for you. Being pregnant and worrying about friends etc. :(
I agree with you Cookie, isn't it weird how different both sides of the country are with the weather. We are battling fires and qld are battling floods! Stay safe everyone and i hope the rain stops very soon so the clean up can start!
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And now I've heard there's bushfires in Perth - is that right? If only we could send our rain over there!!! Love and prayers, Snoozie.
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Yes one side of the country is literally drowning while the other is in drought and fighting fires. If only we could swap the heat and dry for some rain and put the fires out in the cross over!!
Snoozie it is all bad and unbearable enough to watch from here in the West, let alone with those pregnancy hormones and being so close to home for you as well.
Please eveyone that is effected make your safety your priority (and maybe your TMX ;)) every thing else can be replaced. :-* :-*
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Terrible news from Down Under. My thoughts to all those that have lost loved ones, homes..... Sorry about the late post on this topic, but I have cut myself off from the news in all media channels.
Take care Australia....
Admin
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THinking of you all. Wish I could help. Safety first, things, even TMX's can be replaced, or lived without.
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my sis in law has been flooded in for a few days, my niece cant get home. she is at her friends place where the water is lapping at the front door.... :(
the media hype is frustrating for those whose family & friends living in the effected ares. i have some mates in ippy not taking it seriously because the authority's keep changing there story :(
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I guess the problem is the situation is dynamic and the authorities can only tell you the facts as they currently are not as they may end up if hat makes sense?
Anyone who's seen what happened to Toowoomba and the low-lying areas not to mention what is currently happening in Brisbane (and what's expected to come!!!) would be wise to err on the side of caution at this time.
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Yes bush fires in lake clifton 100km south of Perth are mostly under control but I think 7 homes lost and owners in the worst affected area not allowed to return for a number of days. The fire was in the estate where my inlaws used to live :o Their worst fear was a fire like that. not sure if their old house survived the fire.
What a terrible start to 2011 :( :'( my thoughts go out to everyone affected - the late news here doesn't look like things are going to get better any time soon!!
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Just wanted to say that we are thinking and praying for everyone in Queensland affected by the floods. We are all horrified by the news reports. Even though we went through Black Saturday 2 years ago in Victoria, the scenes of devastation and loss in Queensland are absolutely terrible!!! It just makes us realise even more that we are all at nature's mercy in this wonderful country of ours and every day I spend with my husband, children and family is so precious. Not only that, we are also thinking of everyone affected by the bushfires in WA. Once again, our thoughts are with you all and stay safe.
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Hoping that everyone stays safe and dry. The clean up is going to be horrific, my heart goes out to all who are affected.
I've just donated to the cause. The website for online donations is here (http://telethon.smartservice.qld.gov.au/).
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I did a search on google to find out how to donate to the Qld flood victims online. It came up with heaps of sites.
I did the same for the Canarvon flood victims and came up with two sites and they were both news articles.
I'm appalled. >:(
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be careful with donating as unfortunately more often than not the people who actually need it never get it..billions of dollars get raised both internationally and locally and it rarely gets where its supposed to be..in my opinion you would be better off donating food, clothes, toys etc etc...again my opinion only but i get a bit fed up with so called charitys wanting to raise money in teh name of disasters and the people who actually suffer never get much at all :(((
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Hopefully the donated goods that are still in warehouses after black saturday, will be winging their way upto Queensland. thinking of all you queenslanders and west australians.
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OMG, this makes you cry without being pregnant. I feel so sorry for you all over there! I have so many children toys and clothes to donate, but don't know how to send them ???
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Frozzie, I am of much the same opinion as you are.
Many years ago we were on a truck safari through Mozambique and went in to one of the village markets only to see sacks and sacks of maize on sale - all clearly printed "DONATED FROM THE PEOPLE OF THE USA" (or words similar to that, but you get the gist). Ever since then I have been very wary of making any donations because this is obviously wide open for scams of this sort and it makes you so angry to see it when the people are so poor and in desperate need of help.
I had a friend in Chad who did volunteer work in the schools and had arranged for free school books to be sent from overseas for the kids - but she was not allowed access to them until she "acknowledged" the help of an official by dipping into her own purse.
This is all so disappointing and I am not saying that it is always the case other than in those two situations mentioned .... but it does make you think and hesitate!
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While I realise that sometimes donations go missing, please be aware that at this point, many communities (including where we live Toowoomba) is completely cut off. So we might not be getting any deliveries of anything for about 7 days.
So the main reason why they are asking for money is that money can be distributed, whereas donations of food, clothes, blankets etc can't get to many areas.
There is no milk, bread, meat, fruit or vegies, petrol, my husband bought the last packet of nappies on the shelf (hope they fit). No bottled water, toilet paper etc.
What I'm grateful for during this time?
1. My car got flooded but it was empty - could have had my family in it - and I have insurance. So I'm going to try and be grateful for that while I negotiate it's value and sit on hold for a long time - could be so much worse!
2. My backyard is a swamp - it's only a backyard.
3. There's no milk or bread, but I make my own bread and am about to go on a quest for good nut milk recipes. There was plenty of flour and almonds in the shops!
Thanks for your prayers during this time!
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The news here in the UK is full of the devastation that is occurring in Queensland.Please take care and I'm thinking of you all during your terrible time.
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I don't watch a lot of news but have heard about the floods.
Hope everything gets back to normal asap and meanwhile I hope you all stay safe.
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When I watch the news my heart is so tight that I can not explain!
Apart from not knowing you personally - the mere fact of knowing that many of you are living a nightmare draws me the ability to communicate in a good mood!
Believe me, I think of you guys so much all the time - that is extraordinary by the simple fact that our contact is so far yet so near!
I wont you to know that my prayers are with you. I wish you strength to overcome all this disgrace.
On these occasions we feel so small and helpless .....
A big hug with a lot affection from this side of the world!
isabel from Portugal
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I hope they get through soon Cathy as we were cut off for the best part of 2 weeks and people started going a bit stupid what with abusing the produce providers (local supermarket, bakery etc). The police had to hold people back so workers didnt get mobbed over fruit and veg!!! Right now we have limited access to long life milk, bread, milk, flour etc. Our petrol supplies are low but our community is only a fraction of what Toowoomba is.
I am glad to hear you and your family are safe. That really is the most important thing. I am grateful my family and friends are safe. Have friends/fam in Toowoomba, Murphy's Creek, Forest Hill, Ipswich etc and am so grateful they are safe. A couple of them had their cars swept away but better that than them! My cousin in Goodna had his house go under completely so he and his family have lost everything they couldn't get away in time but they are alive. Stressful moments as a friend was caught between two landslides on the range but she is safe at home now after spending a couple of days in an evacuation centre. Now as more communities in Qld are isolated we need to stay together. It's mindboggling our town was slowly emerging from isolation as the crises down there evolved.
Anyway what I'm trying to say is that I'm so grateful and so gutwrenchingly sorry for those who have suffered loss. The stories of courage and bravery coming out (latest of the young boy) has me in tears. There was no time. :(
Our nation remembers them.
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It's just like the nightmare of black saturday repeating :'(. I cried for weeks after with all the stories and the destruction that happened then. It's horrible seeing the images on the news but Cathy my heart goes out to you living in Toowoomba and having that as your reality. I am praying that the poeple that are missiing have been stranded and that today will bring some good news. Stay safe
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I've just been hearing on the news that the flood levels in Brisbane (Queensland) have not peaked at the higher level they had anticipated - I guess that's the only good news to come out of the north so far.
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Cathy, my heart goes out to you. Snoozie, you too and anyone else who is in Qld and suffering.
I like how you are trying to look on the bright side and as long as family and friends are safe, it is only material things which can always be replaced, human life can't.
Thank goodness for your TM so you can make your own nut milk and bread. I was wondering how people are coping with limited supplies and children. As you were saying about nappies, what do you do when you run out? Have you got cloth ones?
I'm thinking of you and hope supplies can get through very soon.
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be careful with donating as unfortunately more often than not the people who actually need it never get it..billions of dollars get raised both internationally and locally and it rarely gets where its supposed to be..in my opinion you would be better off donating food, clothes, toys etc etc...again my opinion only but i get a bit fed up with so called charitys wanting to raise money in teh name of disasters and the people who actually suffer never get much at all :(((
This is so true :( Hlaf of my family lived in Kinglake when Black Saturday hit. How my uncle made it out, we don't know, he was there when it hit, it was the most terrifying thing.
Then, all the donations, millions and millions, enough for everyone who suffered the loss of their homes, so much more money then any of them needed to rebuild. But they didn't get it.
In the end, the couldn't get donated goods, as they were trying to figure out a ticketing system to be fair, they can't rebuild, because the clean up and permits are still going.
My family ended up moving, not being able to cope with the stress, and with no end in site.
All of our family rallied together and got a good little bundle of cash together for those that had nothing left, and they are happily living in another part of Vic now.
It seems that QLD have been far better orchestrated, so perhaps the donations will go where they are needed this time, I sure pray they do!!
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Cathy, my heart goes out to you. Snoozie, you too and anyone else who is in Qld and suffering.
I like how you are trying to look on the bright side and as long as family and friends are safe, it is only material things which can always be replaced, human life can't.
Thank goodness for your TM so you can make your own nut milk and bread. I was wondering how people are coping with limited supplies and children. As you were saying about nappies, what do you do when you run out? Have you got cloth ones?
I'm thinking of you and hope supplies can get through very soon.
An old gentleman at an evacuation centre was quoted this morning as saying, "don't cry for things that don't cry for you".
Really disgusted by looters and charlatans. :(
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It is a worry wondering if our donations will get to where you want them to go but in this instance I feel sure it will, at the very least, go towards the huge amount needed to fix infrastructure which will benefit everyone anyway. It's great to hear from those who are in the middle of it and to learn you are safe - you have all been on our minds but with your problems we knew the forum was not your top priority. I have a huge respect for your premier, Anna Bligh - don't know what Queenslanders thought of her before this disaster but I think she is doing a wonderful job. I cannot drag myself away from the TV for any length of time and it is heart-breaking. Dreadful stories coming out of the area and I feel your pain. It is going to be a long road back to normal, so much work to do to clean up once the river subsides and I wish you all the very best at this terribly hard time :'( :'( :'( :-* :-* :-*.
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The donations are going through Telethon, in conjunction with the Qld Govt, so please don't let that stop you.
I find it appalling that the people affected by the bushfires in Victoria didn't receive the help they needed Lee and hope that your family are able to tell the rest of Australia about this. Perhaps A Current Affair or Today Tonight should be following up on this.
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Cathy, congratulations on your positive attitude, you're a star.
Words cannot express my feelings so I won't even try. My thoughts and prayers are with you all, especially our forum members who we all know and care for. :-* :-* :-*
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Today is a very emotional day for me personally, I have been in tears this morning watching the news and praying that you are all safe and can continue to be that way.
My mum goes for some major surgery today for a cancer that was diagnosed the week before Christmas so I may be a little thin on the ground for the next week or so, I really just wanted you to all know that regardless, you are still in my thoughts and for all that my family is going through right now if seems so insignificant compared to what you are all facing and dealing with on a daily basis - probably for a long time to come.
You are all so inspirational with your positive attitudes, it has bolstered my spirits today and I look forward to bracing myself and moving forward knowing that my family is safe and mostly well!
p.s. I don't want to hijack this thread, please leave it for our fellow forumites who really are going through a tough time and don't know what is ahead of them. I just wanted you to know that you are all truly amazing in one way or another. :-* :-* :-*
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It is such a tragic time with the flooding. The images are so hard to watch on TV. I find myself giving our children lots of extra kisses and cuddles at the moment and holding them close.
My thoughts and prayers are with your Mum and your family Kathryn.
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The devastation of what is happening in the most wonderful state of Qld has all in a state of shock. However as Cathy stated, we have much to be thankful, each one of us leaving a message is safe and alive. Our DD1 lives in Brisbane but thankfully her home has not been affected - when you know an area so well it is tragic to see the destruction, but nothing compares to the devastation suffered by those of the Lockyer Valley. The shelves of all grocery stores in Rockhampton are bare, but that is of little significance. My thoughts are with you and your family Kathryn.
Love and prayers to all.
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My thoughts and prayers go to all affected by the floods in Queensland floods. As long as you and your loved ones are safe, then that is the main thing - although still devasting, homes and material possessions can be replaced, but lives cannot.
I love the fact that the forum members are so genuinely caring. I guess every day something is happening in someone's life, and it's good that we can rally together for support.
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An old gentleman at an evacuation centre was quoted this morning as saying, "don't cry for things that don't cry for you".
Very true, Snoozie - when things like this happen, it makes us realize what's really important in life, doesn't it. Hope you and Cathy are coping okay with it all, and anyone else down where all this is happening. My brother moved house last week, just before the floods - the house he moved to is on a hill and completely safe; the house he moved out of is under water. Thank God he moved when he did - amazing timing!!! My mum's just flown down there today to help him and the kids (and anyone else she can help, I'm sure).
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It is heartbreaking watching the footage.
And this afternoon when it all seemed to get too much for Anna Bligh was so upsetting as she has been so strong through it.
My dd2 (7) is extremely worried about flooding now (we are in Sydney, I'd been avoiding her seeing footage but we had the tv on at a friend's today) so am hoping she doesn't have nightmares tonight, seeing the images has really affected her.
Hope everyone is keeping safe and with their loved ones.
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It is heartbreaking watching the footage.
And this afternoon when it all seemed to get too much for Anna Bligh was so upsetting as she has been so strong through it.
My dd2 (7) is extremely worried about flooding now (we are in Sydney, I'd been avoiding her seeing footage but we had the tv on at a friend's today) so am hoping she doesn't have nightmares tonight, seeing the images has really affected her.
Hope everyone is keeping safe and with their loved ones.
Hey Zan..I was a bit like you about letting my children see it, as my sister was in the Carnarvon floods here in WA and I didn't want my children to see the loss of life..but as the phone calls and messages on facebook kept coming from our friends and family in QLD saying they were okay ..I couldn't hide it from them.
So I talked about it with them and asked them what we would do and take..so this empowered them not to be worried and we would sort it out if we were ever in this suituation...Pray we never are.
We are close to where there are alot of fires so we have a evacuation plan for that.
But I Donated through Coles hoping they would give food or other goods to QLD
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I think everyone in Brisbane is shattered.
My Hubby has been without work for a month now due to either rain or flooding and we are down to our last few dollars. I've even had to consider selling my TM to pay for our necessities. It's humbling to admit it. We are fortunate that our house was not flooded but we are still affected.
It sucks that the bakery has doubled the price of bread and fruit and veg has quadrupled just because they can, while other bakeries are giving away their bread for free. They are the people that when I can afford to I will walk into and hand them money personally. To me they are the deserving ones as they are opening their hearts and wallets.
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So sorry to hear that foodiepep. Does DH qualify for the Federal Government's special payments for people who can't work because of the floods? Here is part of an interview with Julia Gillard -
"Today I announce a further assistance measure - this is the Disaster Income Recovery Subsidy. This measure is to assist people who are not able to do their normal income-earning work and get their normal income because of flood and disaster circumstances.
So, to just take some examples of that, it could be a truck driver who's stood down because the mine in which he or she works isn't working because of floodwaters. It could be a small business person, maybe someone who owns and operates a coffee shop and they are in a flood-affected area, their coffee shop is flooded and not working. It could be a farmer who is not earning their ordinary income because they can't get their produce to market because roads are cut.
This payment has been triggered in earlier natural disasters. For example, it was triggered in the wake of Cyclone Larry, and also in the wake of the very devastating bushfires in Victoria.
This subsidy enables people to get income support at the same rate as Newstart, so that is the payment generally available for people who are unemployed. It enables people to get income support at that rate for a 13-week period. The income tests for Newstart apply, but the asset tests do not.
So, this payment is available in circumstances where people haven't been able to access other Federal Government payments through our normal social security payment system."
I do hope you and your family qualify for this payment. Keep your chin up, I wish you and your family a change in circumstances very soon.
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foodipep, (hugs) that is so sad and hope things look up for you guys soon. And so true!
Nat, the worst thing with dd2 was to not say we are more likely to be affected by a bushfire than a flood (we are on the edge of the national parks) but didnt' want to give her another thing to worry about! She is already terrified by electrical storms, found her one night at 10pm huddled in her bed, hugging a toy, shaking, I'd thought she'd gone to bed and missed it but she'd got up, turned on the light and was just staring at the window shaking.
She has an amazing imagination as well as a very strong sense of black/white so it's hard to dispel her fears as she wants facts but obviously you can't be totally honest (yes there is a chance of flood everywhere) etc.
Makes me think of all the sensitive kids who are going through this and how hard they will find it.
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Judy very interesting news re the payouts, hopefully they will qualify - and many others, hope they hear about them.
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oh pep, i haven't been here for so long and now i read this - i so hope you and everyone else will be all right. sending you lots of love, xoxo.
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Hiya all, we live in Brisbane but we're about 20mins out of the city and not affected. The nearest affected area is about 10-15 mins away. It is just totally devestating to watch on TV areas we frequent all the time flooded and the loss of lives just beyond belief. I just never would have thought we'd ever see this kind of flooding in Brisbane, it's totally unbelievable. We've had non-stop rain for weeks and weeks (kids and parents are going stir crazy)
I couldn't believe my eyes the other night when I went to the supermarket to pick up milk. The shopping centre I chose is usually really quiet. The shelves were bare ! No fresh milk, no powdered milk, no bread, no flour and I mean all kinds of flour sold out. And after visiting a few other supermarkets since, yet again the same for the last few days. Rocklea is well under water which is where all the fruit and veges are distributed from so everyone's stocking up on frozen veg and canned fruit. I was talking to the guy in the deli in Woolies the other night and they did an extra batch of bread at 6 in the evening, 270 loaves and they were gone in 15 mins. The fruit shop was temporarily closing because they couldn't get stock from Rocklea markets. We managed to get milk at a local Coles today, luckily. One of the major milk distribution centres and supplies half the milk to Qld is under water and they're hoping they're up and running again next week.
All of this is trivial considering what others are going thru. But just thought I'd let you know what's happening. My brother has put his name down to help, but they haven't contacted him. May not I guess until the water is gone. It's just so weird here at the moment, everyone's just in disbelief. I'm lucky we don't know anyone affected however my g/f's husband is stuck in Toowoomba (not affected) but can't get home to his family, but hey at least he will get home.
In disbelief !
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Just wanting to wish anyone affected by floods or fires all the best. Been off air for a while & I hadn't seen the Qld flooding pics until last night &, like others, l have been transfixed by the images. So many tragic stories but great spirit too.
It's really galling to read about the fact that Black Saturday bushfire relief hasn't gotten to the victims. I'd heard rebuilding was problematic & drawn out.....unfortunately makes you think twice about donating.
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Thanks everyone you guys brought tears to my eyes and I'd thought I had none left after what I've seen this week.
We aren't entitled to the disaster relief payment as we weren't 'directly affected' as for the income payment: well we are hoping that DH can get work on the Gold Coast for the next few weeks until it gets back to normal in Brisbane. Unfortunately the income support for disaster relief isn't back dated. It comes into effect from the date you apply. If I'd known it was going to rain for so long we could have applied a long time ago.
On a positive note DH has gotten a call that he has work tomorrow. Hooray.
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my dd9 told my mate she is worried about our family back east because they have been evaporated from there homes lol...... luckily they haven't been evacuated or evaporated ;D ;D...... gave me a chuckle.... was just what i needed with all the devastation.... hope everyone else gets a little chuckle too
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On a positive note DH has gotten a call that he has work tomorrow. Hooray.
Wonderful news! :)
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miss thermo, i'm betting everyone is wishing the rain and flood would hurry up and evaporate!
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foodiepep, so pleased to hear DH is off to work tomorrow and hope things start to look up for you.
It must be so hard for children to comprehend the enormity of the problem with the floods so your DD's comment bought a little smile when reading your thread miss thermo.
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Amongst all the devastation there are such incredible tales of heroics and compassion......here is 1 to make you all smile but you need to read the story aloud - 'The local butcher in a flood stricken area near Rockhampton, rang the Morning Bulletin to ask for help from the public to keep watch for his 30 sows and pigs which had been washed away.....the paper printed the headlines -
30 000 pigs lost to flood waters' - lazy Aussie speech would be responsible for that particular mix up.
Best wishes to all as people try to piece their lives back together :)
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Ha ha!! That's so funny! :D
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That is funny. I'm sure that would have brought a smile to many peoples faces in the devastated areas.
The first time we went to Ethiopia we travelled through the North of the country at a time when it was recovering from severe flooding. It was amazing to see how positive the people were being (or trying to be) and the way they were pulling together to rebuild huts and farms despite the total devastation and massive loss of lives. At the time I wondered if the same thing were to happen in Australia if we would be capable of reaching out to help others in the same way. I certainly know the answer now. Everytime I turn the TV on there are stories of people helping each other and people just so grateful to be alive.
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Yes Chelsea - it gives me goosebumps to hear the positive outlook of those most severely affected. :)
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Me too! They're amazing.
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I'm thrilled by the 'mateship' that people are showing. Except for those lousy no good rotters who are looting. They deserve to be #@@$&^***!@%. I'll leave it to your imagination.
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I live 5 mins down the road from the Ipswich CBD, we have lived here for almost a year (before that we were in North Qld). We are on a hill away from the river thankfully.
It has been an emotional week, filled with shock & sadness for the damage & loss. Anger & disbelief at looters, price hikes & selfish shoppers. Frustration with not being able to physically help (flooded roads, 3 children etc), and having no money to donate. Happiness and relief over the rescues, positive stories & eagerness for so many to help out! All that and there was no damage to my property, I can't even begin to imagine what others may be feeling.
I am hoping I can get in an do something soon to help out.
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regardless what my views are on donating...i do hope that everyone is safe and its good to see the stories of those that are safe even if they have lost a little or alot and I sincerely hope that this time people actually get the money but history unfortunately says otherwise and its not just in oz its all over the world..same story everytime...stay safe people as human life is irreplacable..everything else is one day or another...we buried a neighbour yesterday..cancer..died within a week..quite young and let behind two boys..very fast and very shocking...2011 hasnt started off to be that great of a year...lets hope that it improves over the coming months!
:)
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i just spoke to my friend in qld and she's fine and very lucky. she didn't have power for a few days, and in that time all the neighbours got together and shared food. no looting. i wish everyone was as lucky. i hope everything is restored in record time.
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Oh Peps :( I had no idea......wishing you a positive outcome :) xxxooo
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There's just no words....Every time my kids have been worried about tsunami or floods I've told them we're safe on top of a mountain and pity help the rest of Australia if we went under - what do I say now!? The amount of water has been just unbelievable. :'( :'( :'( My heart breaks and thoughts go out to all affected and touched by this disaster. :-* :-* The roads have been decimated. In the long term - I hope everyone has their gardens planted cause the whole food supply of Australia has been drenched and swept away. :-\
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That's what I'm thinking, Nay Nay - time to get serious about gardening!!!
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We are planting a garden tomorrow.
As for the looters, please remember this is only a very few unscrupulous people less that 0.001% of the SEQ population.
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I got an email this morning from my sister who lives in Queensland and she wrote this:
" .... there was some panic buying with bread, milk and petrol, but the roads are open now. 1 lady went to buy 6 loaves of bread when there was a limit of 3, when they stopped her at the checkout she tore open 3 of them, threw on the floor and stamped on them so no-one else could have them."
What a %&^*#@! person - I hope they made her pay for those three loaves and confiscated the other three. Like the looters, there are very few like her, but they somehow seem to overshadow all the good folks. I heard on the news that there were 12,000 volunteer helpers in Brisbane on Saturday and they were expecting the same on Sunday.
We had some minor flooding in my husband's workshop (in Central Victoria) and we were so lucky to have wonderful neighbours who turned out to help us as well. We were very lucky compared to so many others. I suspect the really hard part for them will start now, once they can actually get back to their homes and come to terms with their own personal situation.
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That is so disgusting. How could she? >:(
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You can't even think of any excuse for some people - How do you get to that point!? :o
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it is disgusting what she did but you never know someones personal life and circumstances (eg does she have a large family to feed and not only one or tswo children for example...systems are never fair..3 loaves could be ample for one family even more than enough but not enough for another???? as well as whatever stresses life put on her) and so personally i think its best not to judge..stress can make people do some wacky things and unfortunatley there are always people around like that..I dont think they are always people who do it on purpose if you kow what i mean just circumstances change them but still a horrible thing to do. Saying that there are also some very egotistical horrible people around but I think especially in a country like oz, people are generally helpful, friendly and easy going most of the time compared to the rest of the world and even those people can have a crazy moment..
If people didnt panic buy also I dont think it would have been as bad ie stocks emptied etc...we had a similar problem re fuel stocks end of last year over here...stock was more limited than usual and every man and his dog went and filled up not only their cars but also jerry cans etc etc...if people only took what they needed it wouldnt have been asz bad and people wouldnt have started fighting each other and going crazy over something so stupid...sorry to sidetrack just trying to show that stress and panic make people do stupid things.
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I agree with you Frozzie, we don't know the individual circumstances, but her behaviour really was selfish and inexcusable (after all, if she needed more bread, she could have easily gone back into the store a minute later to buy some more and no one would have known the difference). However, you are also right, stress does make most of us act out of character and panic buying totally blows everything out of proportion. You are a very understanding person and I should try to take a leaf out of your book and try to be more compassionate.
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cuilidh it is also alot easdier to be compassionate and understanding when you arent in the thick of it and its not on the tv to remind you ever 5 secs...(im not a bit lover of media in oz...over and over and over again.sometimes too much is too much..need to let people process the news and not shove it down their throats) like i said stress changes us..i think everyone just needs to do the best they can with the circumstances given to them
hope people are getting the support and help they need :)
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Frozzie, you have made a good point. So very kjind of you. I must agree about the media here. I get really angry when they shove a microphone under some people's noses at very distressing times.
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You're right, Cookie1 - especially when they ask such inane questions as ".. and how do you feel about what has happened to you / your house?" etc. etc. It is so facile!! >:(
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I think one of the saddest things about the media is the way in which they move on so quickly after the event has happened although the communities are still suffering for many months, if not years afterwards.
We've had some bad flooding in the UK over the past few years and on the anniversary they revisit the people and find that some of them are still unable to move back in to their homes. They become forgotten when the next big media story hits.
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I agree. The media drives me nuts. At the height of the floods we were getting 24 hours news coverage of the flooding on all of our major TV channels. How many times must we see the same horrifying footage? It was like the coverage of 9/11, when we had to see the images of the planes over and over. Now, we are lucky to get updates on the news and one can only imagine what every poor soul whose house, business, belongings etc have been ruined by the floods, let alone those people still missing or those who aren't able to get back to see their property for now.I just think the media are atrocious. Instead of getting interviews of people in their darkest times, they should roll up their sleeves, muck in with everyone else and help out.At least that would achieve something more useful than getting ratings.
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How are you all going? What has the cleanup been like :-\ hope you are all doing ok. :-*
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Hi all,
Haven't been on for a bit. All my family are in Qld. I have a sister and Mother in Bundy, they were actually here when the flooding was happening, but my nephew also lives up there. They are all fine. When my Mum went back, she was telling us that the water had gone down and the shopping centre she lives across the road from only had the supermarkets open and all the other shops there were still cordoned off.
I have family and friends in Ipswich, Toowoomba and other side of Toowoomba, as in Oakey, & Jondaryn. But all are fine and didn't get flooded. But I agree the media hypes things up, that is so they can get ratings!!! But also on the other hand people need to know how things are. But the media seemed to focus on a few suburbs and didn't go to some places that were pretty hard hit as well.
I just hope the mateship and friendlyness keeps happening and neighbour will continue to help neighbour. Not just in devestating times, but all the time.
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I'm feeling quite proud that my local footy team (Swan Districts) have all gone to Q'land to help. I thought it was rather good of them.