Help the Wilson Family Rebuild Their Farm After A Flood

Organiser: Jami-lea Macbeth (DAUGHTER)

Beneficiaries: Sandra and Michael Wilson

Dear Friends, Family and Kind Supporters,

The Wilson family (my family) recently endured yet another heartbreaking flood, that struck their family farm and home on the Mid North Coast from May 20th to May 23rd, 2025. This is the second time in just four years that my family has been severely impacted by such a devastating event, a record breaking 1 in 500 year unprecedented flood which has destroyed their farm, home, crops, machinery, water pumps, farm equipment, all their belongings, toys, washing machine & dryer, fridges & freezers, chest freezers and so much more.

During the fierce flooding, my 15yr old sister bravely stood on the roof of the family home, waving desperately to a passing helicopter, hoping to signal for a rescue boat. They were trapped-without power-dry clothing-fresh water or food, and the floodwaters continued to keep rising around them while they watched everything they once knew and worked hard for be destroyed in the blink of an eye.

Rescue boats arrived a short while after to take my mum, 3 younger siblings, 2 puppies and their 4 cats, meanwhile our dad stayed behind, choosing to remain with our farm—a place that was still filled with cattle, miniature donkeys, a cat, an orphan lamb and our 3 loyal farm dogs—because it’s more than just a home; it’s his livelihood. He refused to abandon his land, knowing that everything they have worked for depends on it. His love for the farm and his family kept him there, caring for the family home knowing the rest of the family had sought safety. It’s a testament to his strength, loyalty, and unwavering dedication to what he loves most.

In the midst of the rising floodwaters, he bravely navigated the dangerous floodwaters by boat, cutting fences with only an axe in a valiant effort to rescue our cattle. Sadly, despite my dad’s unwavering efforts and desperate attempts to save all of our livestock, unfortunately we’ve lost nearly half of our herd. The cattle were caught off guard and didn’t understand what was happening, which makes this loss even more heartbreaking.

It’s been an incredibly difficult time for us, as these animals are more than livestock—they're part of our family and livelihood. Our focus now is on restoring the herd and ensuring their safety and well-being in the future.

My parents are primary producers and as primary producers they have always faced a variety of challenges however, the recent floods have exacerbated these issues significantly, impacting their income and overall sustainability. Their crops have been destroyed, paddocks and fences severely damaged or missing, missing livestock and cattle scattered dead around the property, up and down the river, hanging in fences and trees which is absolutely heart breaking and has lead to a direct loss of income. Additionally, the costs associated with cleaning, recovering and rebuilding has been overwhelming, which will cause further straining on their financial stability now and future to come.

My family and I normally do not ask for help, and we find it difficult to accept it but this time, the need is urgent. The floodwaters have destroyed so much of their things from clothing, bedding, furniture, food, technology, kids toys, essential household items, tools, pumps, generators, equipment, farm vehicles, motorbikes, cars, trucks, livestock feed, pet beds as well as it has severely affected their livestock and pets homes and health, requiring desperate feeding and urgent medical care.

My parents are two of the strongest people I know, and their resilience has shaped who I and my siblings are today. They have spent their entire lives working hard, facing challenges with unwavering determination and grace, teaching us that if you want something in life you have to work hard to get it. Their commitment to our family and their relentless pursuit of a better life for us is truly inspiring. I admire their strength, determination and I strive to embody the values they’ve instilled in me every day. I am endlessly grateful for their sacrifices and the love they have given us.

This ordeal has been incredibly tough for our family, but we remain determined to rebuild what we’ve lost. We are working tirelessly around the clock to clean up, rebuild, and make it a home again but they are struggling and cannot do it alone. Your kindness and support can make a real difference in their lives.

Your donations will help them secure temporary accomodation, replace essential items, provide medical care and feed for livestock and pets, and continue the rebuilding process of not only their home but their lives as well. Every contribution, no matter the size, gives us hope and strength to keep moving forward.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your compassion, prayers, and support during this difficult time, and let’s continue to advocate for our primary producers.

Please share their story to help us reach others who may be able to help. We are grateful for any support or guidance as we work through this challenging time.

Alternatively, to avoid surcharges, donations can also be made via direct deposit to the below Commonwealth bank account:

Account name - Jami-lea K Reid

BSB - 067872

Account number - 28006603

With gratitude and hope,

Jami-lea

(Daughter of Sandra & Michael)

(Sister to Jenna-15, Jorja-13 & Jake-10)