The Kimberley region in north-west Western Australia is reeling from the devastating impact of ex-tropical cyclone Ellie, which has brought once-in-a-century flooding to the area. The torrential rain has caused widespread destruction, leaving hundreds of people displaced and struggling to cope with the loss of their properties, livestock, and personal belongings.
The speed and ferocity of the flooding caught many by surprise, with homes and buildings being swept away by the surging waters. Joe Ross, a Banuba man from Fitzroy Crossing, described the scene as “an absolute disaster”. “People are traumatised and angry, they’re displaced… many people have lost everything, the basics of their homes, fridges, air conditioning, stoves, bedding, personal things and photos,” he said.
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has deployed rescuers to evacuate communities at risk, as well as deliver food and medical supplies via air and boat. Emergency services minister Stephen Dawson acknowledged the frustration and distress felt by those affected, but stressed that authorities are working tirelessly to restore order and provide support.
Cyclone EllieTraditional owners and community leaders are urging the government to communicate more effectively with Indigenous peoples, who are disproportionately affected by the disaster. “In a place with 80-90% Aboriginal people, you would expect that they would convene talks with Aboriginal leaders to let them know what they are doing, but it’s practically nonexistent, it’s a total disregard,” Ross said.
As the floodwaters slowly recede, residents are facing the daunting task of sifting through the damage and rebuilding their lives. Geoff Davis, a Derby shire councillor, estimates he has lost thousands of dollars’ worth of vehicles after his property near Fitzroy Crossing was inundated. “The problem is when it dries out, it gets smelly first and then it gets dusty… and then it becomes like concrete and it’s extremely hard to move,” he said, describing the thick, hard mud and stench of decay.
The community is coming together, however, with friends and family offering support and moral aid. As the region begins to rebuild, authorities are working to deliver supplies and assess the full extent of the damage. The road to recovery will be long and difficult, but for now, the people of the Kimberley are left to grapple with the devastating aftermath of cyclone Ellie’s wrath.