Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns received a “rock star” welcome at the Maitland NSW SES unit on Friday.

The pair, along with federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain and state Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib, was originally headed for Taree before the weather impacted everyone’s travel plans.

Instead, the quartet met up with NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing, Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison and Paterson MP Meryl Swanson at the Rutherford site on 23 May to get acquainted with selfless volunteers and obtain an update on the ongoing flood event, which has claimed four lives.

And, they were swamped with requests for selfies, a quick chat and the obligatory sausage sanga.

“Despite the seriousness of the situation, it’s nice to feel wanted,” Mr Albanese said.

“While we hoped to be in Taree, it just wasn’t possible, which I’m sure people understand.

“However, our thoughts are with those who are cut off at this point in time.

“We’re here to say very clearly, and explicitly, you’re not alone.

“The federal government, state government and local government, as well as everyone in NSW and Australia, is with you.

“And, we’ll do what we can to help.

“Sadly, we’re seeing more extreme weather events; they’re occurring more frequently.

“On this occasion, the flood area goes all the way from the North Coast down to the Victorian border, with the region from Kempsey to the Central Coast being impacted the most.”

The Prime Minister and Premier both took the opportunity to “give a shout out to the NSW SES and the wonderful volunteers”.

“These people are heroes,” Mr Albanese told the Newcastle Weekly.

“They’re helping their neighbours, their community and others further afield throughout NSW.

“So, we’ve had the privilege of thanking them.

“They are giving up their own time, risking their own safety, in order to assist ‘strangers’.

“And, of course, I met the random South Sydney supporter,” he added with a laugh.

“But, I must emphasise that people need to follow the warnings, whether it’s from the NSW SES, NSW Police or a different emergency service.

“Please listen to that advice and follow it.

“Tragically, four people have lost their lives, three of which were associated with driving through floodwaters.

“If it’s flooded, forget it.

“Honestly, you can’t tell what’s underneath the water… it’s so dangerous.

“Even when the rain stops, the waters keep rising for a period of time.”

Mr Minns also expressed his gratitude to individuals and communities for their unbreakable spirit.

“I want to thank everyone for their resilience during a very difficult period,” he said.

“These natural disasters are terrible.

“However, they bring out the best in the Australian character.

“We’ve witnessed numerous incidents of heroism, courage and forbearance over the past week.

“And, even though we mourn those who’ve passed, it’s important to point out that without the efforts of the NSW SES and other personnel, we could’ve had hundreds of deaths.

“So, we’re deeply appreciative to those who volunteer their time or work for emergency services.”

For more news stories:

• Residents evacuated after landslide in New Lambton
• Hunter residents still stranded as flooding continues
• Hunter Workers protest ‘attack’ on injured employees’ support

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