By Stephanie Holliday
THE devastation brought by the 2022 Flood Event sent shockwaves through the entire region. Hundreds of people lost their homes and although 12 months on we are on the road to recovery, many disadvantaged members of our community are still facing the challenges of a chronic housing shortage.
Aspen Lodge Caravan Park in Mooroopna is a haven for those who are facing homelessness, both prior to the floods and most certainly afterwards. The park was decimated as flood waters rose last October, but with the help of Emergency Recovery Victoria (ERV), Victorian Department of Justice, Greater Shepparton City Council and a multitude of kind tradesmen from across Victoria, park owners Yvonne and Russell Prince can finally see the light.
“We are getting there now. We have 55 dwellings currently, as opposed to our original 75, with a few more on their way. We have had some people return who lived here before the floods, as well as people who are still waiting for their homes to be liveable again, refugees and families who have nowhere else to go living here,” said Yvonne.
“We firmly believe everyone has the right to have a place to call home if they wish, and that’s our objective here,” added Russell.
In the early stages post flood, ERV organised for the Australian Defence force to help clean up the park, with GSCC subsequently picking up eight loads of flood damaged property. As Yvonne and Russell rebuild, refurbish and finish working on the park, they are immensely grateful to all the plumbers, builders, electricians and everyone else who has helped get as many sites as possible back up to habitable conditions.
The response from ERV to Aspen Lodge’s plight has gone on to form the basis of a case study to be used in subsequent natural disaster responses for similar establishments.
If you’d like to help Yvonne and Russell Price, they are seeking white goods, in particular single door fridges, to furnish their cabins. Get in touch at 5825 2245 if you can be of any assistance.
