Dave Lees’ first memories of returning to the Mullumbimby public school campus after the devastating floods are etched in his mind like a bad omen. The once-beloved educational hub had been swallowed by muddy waters, leaving behind a terrain that resembled another planet. The air reeked of smelly, clay-laden dirt, and the very thought of it still sends a shiver down his spine.
As the school principal, Lees was responsible for assessing the damage. His first task was to tend to the beloved brood of chickens that had been left behind. The 12 chooks, a symbol of hope and joy, had unfortunately perished in the disaster. The weight of his responsibility was palpable as he began the arduous task of disposing of the lifeless bodies.
The “stinky” campus, as Lees affectionately referred to it, was a grim reminder of the extent of the destruction. Food was rotting in the canteen, and the once-proud library and kindergarten classroom were now nothing but a pile of rubble. The music room, sports gear, and admin block were all destroyed, casting a dark shadow over the school’s future.
The situation was even more dire at the nearby Main Arm Upper public school, which was left in ruins. Walls were coated in mud, and the initial recovery was hindered by washed-out roads. School P&C president Bobby Henry described the scene as “effectively destroyed,” with the community left to pick up the pieces.
Mullumbimby Schools Reopen After Devastating FloodsThe long and arduous recovery process has had a lasting impact on the schools and the students who attend them. Teachers have worked tirelessly to adapt to the new circumstances, but the lack of facilities has undoubtedly hindered their ability to provide a quality education. Families have had to cope with the stress of constant relocation, with students like Lees’ daughter having to move her classroom three times in a single year.
Despite the challenges, the community has shown remarkable resilience. Lees marvels at the strength of the students, who have adapted to their new reality with remarkable ease. However, the scars of the disaster are still evident, with many students struggling to come to terms with the trauma they experienced. Henry’s daughter, for example, still worries about the possibility of future floods, her fear etched on her face every time it rains.
Miraculously, the two schools will finally reopen on Monday, nearly two full school years after the devastation. Education Minister Prue Car has hailed the achievement, praising the students and staff for their unwavering dedication to rebuilding and recovery. Greens MP Tamara Smith has paid tribute to the selflessness and bravery of the communities, urging everyone to continue supporting those affected by the disaster.
As the community continues to rebuild and recover, the legacy of the floods will undoubtedly linger. However, it is the resilience and strength of the students and parents that provide hope for a brighter future. As Lees so eloquently puts it, “It’s had its challenges along the way, but we’ve got there in the end.” The school may have been muddied by the disaster, but the hearts of those who call it home have emerged stronger and more united than ever.