Despite almost continuous domestic deployments, disruptions in training, and dirty conditions, 6th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (6 RAR) soldiers smile with awe as they clean up flood-damaged trash from a suburban street.
Bravo Company, 6 RAR, was first tasked in Brisbane. They were then re-deployed to Chinderah, New South Wales, on Saturday, March 12, to conduct a kerbside sweep as part of Operation Flood Assist.
An Australian Army soldier from 7th Brigade assists a farmer near Gatton, Queensland, by clearing flood debris as part of Operation Flood Assist 2022.
Lieutenant Patrick Clyne, troop commander, described the operation as a team effort that they are happy to do, using Army trucks and sheer numbers.
Lieutenant Clyne stated that the lads realize that it is still important to be here even though they are away from home again.
Australian Army soldiers from 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, collect flood-damaged household items for loading onto a truck as they clear a street in Chinderah, New South Wales, as part of Operation Flood Assist 2022.
“The most rewarding part of this activity has been the interaction with the community. They’ve been very appreciative of our efforts.”
“They have been through many emotional experiences, and to receive a helping hand by our team has had an impact on their personal life.”
A Republic of Singapore Air Force CH-47F Chinook helicopter delivers Singapore Government-donated disaster relief supplies to Lismore, New South Wales, as part of Operation Flood Assist 2022.
Bravo Company isn’t bothered with the physical demands of heavy lifting, which can be very hot and requires very few breaks.
Lieutenant Clyne stated that everyone is helping to remove roadside trash and load it onto trucks so the streets can be as clean as possible.
“It’s great to see the boys get on a job without any guidance or complaints.”
Bravo Company will continue flood cleanup in Chinderah, while 7th Brigade personnel based in Brisbane will assist in other northern New South Wales towns.
A Royal Australian Air Force aviator helps Republic of Singapore Air Force loadmasters load Singapore Government-donated disaster relief supplies into an Republic of Singapore Air Force CH-47F Chinook helicopter at RAAF Base Amberley, Queensland, as part of Operation Flood Assist 2022.
You can see more images from Operation Flood Assist 2022 in the Defence image gallery.
