Drone Footage Reveals Widespread Flood Damage Across NSW as Recovery Begins
Stunning drone footage has unveiled the scale of destruction across New South Wales, with entire communities submerged and rescue efforts underway. As floodwaters begin to recede, the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) and volunteers are launching clean-up and resupply operations to aid isolated residents.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Allison Flaxman confirmed that around 10,000 properties have been affected by the flooding. She emphasized the importance of allowing authorities to assess property and infrastructure damage before residents return.
“Assessments are critical to ensure homes are safe to re-enter,” Flaxman said, noting that over 200 emergency resupply missions had been completed in just two days, with an estimated 50,000 people still cut off.
The aerial footage shows swathes of land underwater, uprooted trees, and debris scattered across once-thriving towns like Coopernook, Cundletown, Ghinni Ghinni, and Jones Island. Several Mid North Coast towns remain isolated under emergency warnings. In a grim scene, dead livestock have been discovered on beaches, carried away by the floods.
Dairy farmers, like James Neal from Oxley Island, described the situation as “unprecedented,” with livestock swept away despite efforts to keep them on supposedly safe ground. Social media has been filled with images of animals stranded or lost in the disaster.
The floods, which have devastated the Mid North Coast and Hunter regions, left four people dead and thousands displaced. One infant had to be airlifted from Riverview near Port Macquarie after being stranded.
Heavy rainfall totals—up to 700mm in Comboyne—have overwhelmed river systems across the region, including the Hastings, Macleay, and Manning rivers. As these waters travel downstream, authorities warn the flooding risk is far from over.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued major flood warnings for numerous rivers and catchments. Meteorologist Miriam Bradbury said flooding would persist in many areas even as rain eases, with more systems expected next week bringing strong winds and renewed rainfall.
Power outages have impacted thousands, especially in Taree, Port Macquarie, and Kempsey. Midcoast Council Mayor Claire Pontin described the damage as “horrendous,” noting that many residents are still in shock and struggling with power and communication issues.
Crews from Essential Energy have restored service to over 690 homes, but 3,200 remain without power or internet. With unstable ground, downed power lines, and active flood zones, repair efforts remain dangerous and complex.
Residents are urged to approach properties cautiously, ensuring electricity—including solar systems—is disconnected before re-entry.
Transport Disruptions Widespread
Multiple major roads remain closed, including the Pacific Highway between Coopernook and Purfleet, and Giinagay Way around Macksville. Sydney’s transport network is also affected, with ferry services suspended and several train lines halted or limited due to flooding.
SES Urges Ongoing Caution
SES Chief Superintendent Paul McQueen stressed that while conditions may improve, danger remains. Volunteers are beginning damage assessments and continuing efforts to reach isolated homes.
Flood alerts are active across rivers including the Deua, Georges, Hawkesbury, Colo, and Nepean. Communities around Camden, Windsor, Nowra, and Liverpool are advised to monitor conditions closely. Moderate flooding is expected in Gillieston Heights and other regions.
Insurance Claims Surge
The Insurance Council of Australia has received over 1,600 claims related to the disaster, with more expected. CEO Andrew Hall urged residents to prioritize safety and notify insurers of any loss or damage once it is safe.
Government Support and Premier’s Visit
NSW Premier Chris Minns visited flood-hit Taree, praising emergency workers and local resilience. He outlined a phased government response focused on rescues, relief, and eventual clean-up—but said financial aid plans will come after a full assessment of the damage.
“We’re doing everything we can to help the community recover,” Minns said, adding that any support plan must be based on the true scale of the devastation.
