As the Flood Recovery Program comes to an end, I am grateful to have been part of a team that shows up, listens, adapts and remains committed no matter how unpredictable the path becomes, writes OSCAR MALYON.
Stepping into my role as a Flood Recovery Support Worker with BCHS, I remember feeling a mixture of nerves, curiosity, and determination.
The position was brand new, and none of us knew exactly what to expect but we knew the community needed us. We were allocated to provide support in four LGAs affected by the 2022 flood event- Greater Bendigo, Campaspe, Loddon and Mount Alexander. We hit the ground running, ready to meet with residents and begin supporting them through what would be a long and emotional recovery journey.
In those early days, our small and cramped office at the old Eaglehawk site became our makeshift control room. We filled the walls with whiteboards covered in phone numbers, contact details, and referral pathways.
Space was tight, but our focus was clear, build a program that could guide people through some of the most challenging months and years of their lives. We spent countless hours canvassing, networking, and building relationships with the many stakeholders involved in emergency recovery.
These partnerships proved essential as we helped clients rebuild homes, access mental health support, and navigate the complicated process of returning to some sort of stability.
Much of our time was spent on the road, visiting clients in their homes, or back at the office making phone calls. Each person we met had a deeply personal story about their experience of the flood filled with fear, loss and resilience.
Hearing these accounts was often confronting, but always deeply humbling. We felt privileged to be entrusted with their stories, and we were committed to doing everything possible to support them. Whether through advocacy, mental health support, flexible funding, or simply being a steady presence, the work was demanding but meaningful. Despite feeling swamped at times, our dedication never wavered.
By the end of the first year, we had supported over 100 flood affected households. The personal and professional growth we experienced throughout that year was enormous.
Together, we shaped a program grounded in compassion, responsiveness, and genuine connection. A program we are proud of.
As the second year began, we quickly realised our work was far from over. Returning from annual leave on January 8th, 2024, I walked straight back into another unfolding flood event. Heavy rain had fallen across the region, and within hours it was all systems go. We met with Emergency Recovery Victoria, checked in with every client, attended SES meetings, and gathered information to keep people informed and safe. The phone calls were emotional many clients were triggered, fearful, and in disbelief that another flood was occurring.
Thankfully, none of our clients experienced a second inundation, but the psychological impact was significant. Memories and trauma from 2022 were brought sharply back to the surface. With intensive case management, we linked clients to counselling support, helped with grant applications, and ensured they felt heard and supported.
We joined the City of Greater Bendigo’s Roving Recovery sessions, attending four information hubs to provide mental health support and service navigation. As new referrals emerged following the 2024 floods, we found ourselves once again stepping back into early recovery mode but this time, with a well-established framework and the confidence gained from the previous year’s work.
Our household numbers grew from over 100 to close to 150, reflecting both the need in our community and the trust placed in our service.
Looking back, I feel incredibly honoured to have supported so many remarkable people through such challenging times. I have met individuals from all walks of life, each with their own strengths, struggles, and stories. The connections built during this program are something I will always carry with me. I am proud not only of the work we’ve done, but of the ways we’ve helped community members discover the supports available to them for mental health, physical health, and overall wellbeing.
This journey has been intense, emotional, and deeply rewarding. It has reminded me of the resilience of our communities and the power of genuine, person-centred support. I am grateful to be part of a team that shows up, listens, adapts, and remains committed no matter how unpredictable the path becomes.
Although the program is coming to an end, I will always look back on this program with fond memories, I feel honoured to be able to meet and work with such inspirational colleagues and community members.
Enjoy the holidays and stay safe.
Oscar
December 11, 2025