We are collecting donations to help our mother and mother-in-law Ann (72) rebuild her life after the recent devastating flooding in Lismore and the Northern Rivers. While Ann would never directly ask herself, she has agreed to let us do this on her behalf.

More than our childhood home, our mum’s house has been a gathering place, safe haven, creative space, and a welcome second home to many over the years. With floodwaters rising meters high inside her house she has lost everything she owns, including her life’s work as an artist.

Ann is a single pensioner who lives alone and has resided in Lismore most of her life. Like so many, she could not afford flood insurance after the 2017 floods due to an extreme rise in the cost of premiums.

 

Ann has always been a caring and active member of her community. As a visual artist and supportive member of many art collectives and exhibitions over the years. As a disability worker providing friendship, support, and care to those who need it most. An avid Scrabble and Mah-Jong player in local groups. And of course, a caring mother and friend to everyone she crosses paths with.

 

Ann was forced to leave her home last week as floodwaters rapidly rose in Lismore, greatly exceeding all known records, nearly losing her closest companion, her cat Domino. Her home and art studio were severely damaged and are now unliveable. She is currently relying on the kindness of friends, family and community to get her through this difficult time.

We would welcome any support you can offer – financial or physical – to help her to rebuild her life and relieve her financial stress during this uncertain time. There is much that can never be replaced, but her immediate upcoming challenges and expenses are:

 

Living costs: clothing, food, accommodation, pet care
Electrical: replace destroyed electrical box and rewire the entire house

Water: replace the destroyed water heater

Structural: structural inspection, repair damaged walls (inside and out) and floorboards

Floors: sand and seal all floors

Painting: repaint the house inside and out to combat mould and water damage

Kitchen: replace destroyed kitchen, fittings and appliances (sink, counter-top, oven, fridge, microwave, cooking and tableware)

Laundry & Bathroom: replace destroyed fittings and appliances (bathtub, washing machine and dryer)

Living room: replace the destroyed appliances and furniture (couches, television, computer, storage)

 

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. So many have rallied already to help Ann and the local community deal with the immediate cleanup. Your support is needed and appreciated. Every little bit counts. We have a long way to go. As all of us are currently based overseas and outside of Lismore this GoFundMe is the best way we can help immediately before returning later this year to offer support in person.

 

Gina, Rick, Hannah, Ida and Lachlan.