Chip in for Charlie

Hello,

My name is Kellie, from Diamond Beach,

I am reaching out on behalf of a local Taree family who have been severely impacted by the recent flood events on the New South Wales Mid North Coast.

Ian Andrews, also known as Charlie, and his wife Sharyn have lost everything. Charlie is a valued Cancer Council NSW Transport to Treatment volunteer driver. I am proud to be his Volunteer Manager and we are grateful that he dedicates his time to drive cancer patients to and from their treatment and cancer related appointments. For over 12 years, Charlie has spent countless hours driving a well-worn path between Taree, Newcastle, and Port Macquarie to ensure everyone can get to their cancer treatment.

For many years, Charlie and Sharyn have lived on their 2-acre property beside the Manning River. Six generations of their family have lived on this land.

The Manning River broke its banks on Tuesday 20th May 2025 engulfing their land, home and everything they own.

This family has battled through the floods of Taree before, rebuilding as necessary. After the 2021 floods, their property was no longer insurable. Unfortunately, this flood, being the worst of them all has now stripped everything from them.

Like a lot of Aussies, times have been tough recently for pensioners with the cost of living. To have this on top, has now had a devastating effect on Charlie and his family, leading to the decision that without help, they will not be able to return to their family home.

Charlie and Sharyn are doing everything they can to hold things together, but they can’t do it alone.

Any and all funds raised will help:

Clear the tonnes of debris that has engulfed their 2 acres

Remove the mass of knee-deep, pungent mud covering their entire property

Strip out all the internal fixtures and fittings

Repair and rebuild of their home

Assist with replanting and land improvements

Replace/ fix the underground water supply/system- including the tanks and pump

Replace all personal belongings, such as clothing, shoes, linen and essential goods

Contribute to all incoming utilities bills and rates

Charlie has always been there for others. Giving back is just what he does, but now, on behalf of his family in this desperate time of unimaginable loss, he needs your support, to give back to him.

Thank you for your consideration and generosity, every dollar will make a difference,

Kellie

** Photo; Charlie (far right) and Allan - Taree Transport to Treatment Drivers, with Kellie, Cancer Council NSW