The Rochester resident stands in his temporary kitchen in his converted bungalow, awaiting the repairs to his home 16 months on from the October 2022 floodwaters that entered his home. Frank’s cat Marlo stands proudly atop a chair while surveying his territory.
Photo by
Michael Lloyd
Rochester residents affected by the recent January floods are relieved after the combined announcement of additional state and federal government support.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
The timing of the $105 million package for Rochester resident Frank Harrison is perfect: he looks forward to receiving assistance for the necessary work, such as plasterboards, a new kitchen and a bathroom, and all the trimmings that make a house a home.
Luckily for Mr Harrison, his temporary home is a caravan with all the modern conveniences and a large, external bungalow that houses his bed, sofa, kitchen, and table, allowing him to cook his meals.
“We’re certainly looking forward to moving back in again as the winters are cold and the summers are hot sleeping in the converted garage,” Mr Harrison said.
“While it can get hot and cold in here, I have a good heating and cooling system which provides comfort.”
Frank Harrison's kitchen awaits the installation of plasterboards, cooktops, benches and cupboards. The remainder of the home already has the top half plasterboard installed.
Photo by
Michael Lloyd
One of the earlier challenges to repairing to his home, which he’s owned since 1961, was the asbestos that lined the inside of the plasterboards.
“The flood water reached a height of about 30cm inside of my home, and once the lower half of the plasterboard was removed, asbestos was discovered, which was later removed,” Mr Harrison said.
“I appreciate everything that has been done for me (regarding grants from the state and federal government and support from the Campaspe Shire Recovery Hub); I’ve always thought that there are many more people who are worse off than me,” Mr Harrison said.
While Mr Harrison’s home will be restored to its October 2022 pre-flood condition, some homeowners are still waiting for repairs to start.
5°C