Review of the operations of the NSW Reconstruction Authority

Review of the operations of the NSW Reconstruction Authority

Site visit report

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Appendix Three – Site visit report

On 16 February 2026, the Committee visited areas of Taree that experienced heavy flooding in

May 2025. The purpose of the visit was to better understand the impacts of the 2025 flood

event and to hear directly from impacted community about their recovery experiences and

interactions with the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

The Committee first visited affected homes on the south side of the Manning River. Members

spoke with a local resident whose home was impacted during the flood and heard firsthand

accounts of the damage sustained and the cumulative impacts of repeated flood events.

Discussions focused on the effects of flooding on residential properties, experiences of

warnings and emergency responses, and challenges associated with recovery, including

insurance and repair processes.

The Committee then travelled to Pulteney Arcade, a commercial area that previously hosted

several businesses which are no longer operating as a result of flood damage. Members spoke

with a local business owner and heard about the impacts of flooding on commercial premises,

including repeated inundation, disruption to trade, and concerns about the long term viability

of businesses in the area.

As part of the visit, a roundtable discussion was held at Club Taree. Several community

organisations were invited to attend including: Mid Coast Outreach Incorporated, Manning

Valley Neighbourhood Services Inc, Taree Lions Club, Harrington Resilience Association,

Country Women's Association – Wingham Branch, Wingham Flood Hub, and Rotary Club of

Taree on Manning. The discussion focused on local organisations’ engagement with the

Authority, their role in supporting affected communities, and challenges encountered in

delivering recovery assistance.

The Committee thanks Mrs Tanya Thompson MP, Member for Myall Lakes, local residents,

business representatives, and community organisations for their time and for sharing their

experiences and insights.